Fatimatu Abubakar, the Minister for Information, has admonished former President John Dramani Mahama, alleging that he is jeopardizing Ghana’s democratic framework through what she describes as incendiary and reckless language.
During a discussion on Asempa FM’s political talk show, Ekosiisen, in Accra on Friday, Madam Abubakar expressed her concerns regarding Mahama’s purported attempts to erode public trust in national institutions and disrupt the political landscape as Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections.
“Former President Mahama is not above the law, and it is disappointing to hear such critiques of independent state institutions from someone who has held the highest office,” she stated.
“His remarks raise questions about his commitment to democracy in Ghana, as he appears to believe that any legal case involving him or his party should inevitably result in his favor. Is that how we should interpret the law? Absolutely not. The law mandates that all cases before the court are decided based on their merits.”
Madam Abubakar referenced Mahama’s recent criticisms of the Electoral Commission (EC) and his allegations that the government is fostering an environment conducive to electoral fraud, arguing that these claims lack substantiation and significantly threaten Ghana’s democratic stability.
“Consider the contrast between the 2012 and 2020 election petitions. Who provided the most evidence in court?” she asked.
“In 2012, when the Supreme Court ruled against then-candidate Akufo-Addo, he accepted the ruling without question to maintain our democratic stability.
This approach supports democracy—not attempting to manipulate the law for personal or political advantage.”
The Information Minister highlighted what she termed a pattern of “dangerous” assertions from Mahama, contending that his statements aim to undermine the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions.
She emphasized that democracy relies on respect for the rule of law and the independence of institutions.
“The Electoral Commission and the courts are entities we should support for a fair and transparent election,” Madam Abubakar remarked.
“If a former President undermines their credibility without concrete evidence, it is not just irresponsible; it’s a direct threat to the health of our democracy.”
She urged all political parties, including Mahama’s NDC, to exercise caution and prioritize the national interest over political ambitions.
