In a sharp rebuke, Minister for Information Fatimatu Abubakar has openly criticized former President John Dramani Mahama, accusing him of jeopardizing Ghana’s democratic foundations with what she described as inflammatory and irresponsible statements. Her comments came during an interview on Asempa FM’s political talk show, Ekosiisen, in Accra on Friday, where she expressed serious concerns about Mahama’s recent rhetoric, particularly as the nation gears up for the 2024 general elections.
Madam Abubakar did not mince words as she spoke of the potential impact of Mahama’s statements on the credibility of Ghana’s democratic institutions. “Former President Mahama isn’t above the law, and I find it disappointing to hear such criticisms of independent state institutions coming from a former president,” she stated. The Information Minister emphasized that Mahama’s comments, in her view, suggest he expects any legal case involving him or his party to result in his favor, which she argued undermines the rule of law. “Is that how the law should be viewed? Absolutely not. The law dictates that all cases before the court should be decided on merit,” she added.
Madam Abubakar’s concerns are rooted in recent statements by Mahama, who has frequently expressed skepticism about the integrity of the Electoral Commission (EC). He has accused the current government of fostering an environment that encourages election malpractice, casting doubt on the fairness of the electoral process. According to Abubakar, these allegations are baseless and could seriously destabilize Ghana’s political climate, especially at a time when stability is crucial. She argued that if such claims continue unchecked, they risk eroding public trust in the institutions that form the backbone of Ghanaian democracy.
Drawing a comparison between past and present election disputes, Madam Abubakar highlighted the response to the 2012 and 2020 election petitions as examples of how leaders should respect democratic processes. “Consider the difference between the 2012 and 2020 election petitions. Who presented the most evidence to the court?” she asked, emphasizing the weight of evidence as central to judicial credibility. She pointed out that in 2012, when the Supreme Court ruled against then-candidate Nana Akufo-Addo, he accepted the decision without question, prioritizing democratic stability over personal or party interests. “That’s the approach that upholds democracy—not trying to bend the law to fit one’s personal or political interests,” she argued.
The Information Minister also identified a troubling pattern in Mahama’s statements, which she claimed were intended to cast doubt on the integrity of Ghana’s democratic framework. This approach, she warned, is dangerous, as it questions the very foundation of democracy—the rule of law and respect for independent institutions. “The Electoral Commission, the courts—these are institutions that we should be rallying behind to support for a fair and transparent election,” Madam Abubakar said. “If a former President undermines their credibility without any concrete evidence, it is not just irresponsible; it’s a direct threat to our nation’s democratic health.”
Madam Abubakar’s remarks come at a pivotal moment, as Ghana prepares for what is expected to be a highly contested general election in 2024. Her statements appear to be a call to action for all political leaders to put aside partisan interests and focus on preserving the integrity of the electoral process. She implored leaders, especially those with significant influence, to use their platforms to advocate for unity and cohesion, rather than division. “There is a time and place for political disagreement, and our democratic system allows for vibrant, competitive debate,” she acknowledged. However, she cautioned that when such debate crosses the line into questioning the credibility of democratic institutions, it ceases to be merely a political issue and becomes a matter of national importance.
In a pointed message to Mahama and his party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Madam Abubakar called for restraint, urging all parties to remember their responsibility to the country as a whole. “Political leaders must lead by example and advocate for peace and national cohesion,” she added. Her appeal was not only directed at Mahama but also extended to other parties, encouraging them to prioritize Ghana’s long-term stability over any immediate political gains.
The Information Minister’s critique has sparked conversations nationwide, with citizens and analysts alike weighing in on the potential consequences of Mahama’s comments. Supporters of Mahama argue that his concerns are valid and reflect genuine issues with the current political climate. However, others view his statements as undermining the country’s democratic process and fostering division in an already polarized environment. For many, Madam Abubakar’s remarks highlight a larger issue facing Ghana’s democracy—the balance between healthy political discourse and the preservation of trust in national institutions.
The accusations leveled by Madam Abubakar reflect a deep-seated concern within the government about the impact of rhetoric that could incite doubt in the electoral process. By urging political leaders to respect the decisions of the courts and the role of the Electoral Commission, she underscored the importance of impartiality and the rule of law. Her comments serve as a reminder that Ghana’s democracy, though resilient, relies on mutual respect among leaders and the citizens’ confidence in institutions that operate independently of partisan interests.
As Ghana moves closer to the 2024 elections, the rhetoric on all sides is likely to intensify. With these elections representing a critical juncture for the nation, the tone and conduct of political discourse will play a pivotal role in determining the stability of the democratic process. Madam Abubakar’s call for responsible leadership has underscored the need for an election season marked by integrity, respect, and a commitment to the principles that have sustained Ghana’s democracy.
Ultimately, the Information Minister’s statement serves as both a warning and an appeal. By emphasizing the importance of supporting rather than undermining Ghana’s democratic institutions, Madam Abubakar has placed the responsibility squarely on the shoulders of political leaders to lead by example. Whether this appeal will be heeded remains to be seen, but as the election approaches, the eyes of the nation are firmly fixed on those in power. As Ghana navigates this pivotal period, the hope is that all leaders will remember that their actions today will shape the future of the country’s democratic legacy.
