By Fuvi Kloku
In a stark critique of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed deep concerns over the state of the nation. Bawumia claims he conceded early defeat in the elections to maintain peace, yet the anticipated tranquility seems to be unraveling. One may ask, what would he have done differently after realizing that the elections could not be overturned or stolen?
Dr. Bawumia’s worries resonate with a growing atmosphere of insecurity and frequent attacks on journalists. Through his official Facebook handle, he shared, “There is a general atmosphere of insecurity with attacks on journalists, the use of our military to raid the homes of former government officials and communities, as well as mobs attacking innocent individuals and state institutions.”
He continued, “This is rather reminiscent of a military takeover and not a peaceful democratic transition. These are certainly worrying times for our democracy, and the earlier action is taken to protect institutions and democratic practice, the better it would be for Ghana’s forward march.”
However, critics argue that Dr. Bawumia’s recent statements display a stunning amnesia of his own tenure. The specter of violence and insecurity looms large over his administration. Under his watch, Ghanaians, including a member of parliament, were brutally assaulted during the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election. Additionally, eight citizens tragically lost their lives in the South Techiman constituency.
As head of the Police Council, Dr. Bawumia did little to bring the perpetrators to justice. During general and presidential elections under his tenure, some regions in Ghana were effectively transformed into zones of fear, where soldiers and NPP militias clad in military uniforms terrorized citizens. Peaceful demonstrators were frequently persecuted and jailed.
When the NPP seized power, incidents of violence increased. Citizens faced brutal beatings, and the judiciary was flooded with NPP loyalists, eroding the public’s trust in the justice system. Allegations against Bawumia’s wife and other officials involving the illegal seizure of property went unanswered, further tainting his tenure.
Critics call out Dr. Bawumia’s hypocrisy, urging him to desist from his democracy lectures. After witnessing his administration’s actions for eight years, many believe he should allow President Mahama the space to rebuild the nation. The constant peddling of misinformation to remain relevant is seen as a desperate attempt by Bawumia, especially after the crushing defeat in the elections.
The political landscape of Ghana will be free from tension, and the nation will move forward, if Bawumia and his kind will refrain from interference and allow President Mahama to reset the country.
Source: Fuvi Kloku
