Bawumia calls for nurse’s release, says intelligence agencies should not target citizens
The detention of a Techiman-based nurse alleged to be linked to the anonymous “Ghana Jollof” social media account has drawn criticism from former Vice President and NPP 2028 flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who says the case raises concerns about free expression and the role of state security agencies.
In a statement posted on Facebook on Friday, September 18, Dr Bawumia called for the release of Salomey Bafor Awiti, a mother of three who has been remanded for two weeks over allegations of abetting the publication of false news. The case forms part of investigations into the social media account, whose alleged operator has been identified by authorities as London-based Ghanaian nurse Barbara Asantewaa Kodua.
Rather than focusing solely on the circumstances of the arrest, Dr Bawumia used the development to outline his position on civil liberties, arguing that intelligence agencies should concentrate on national security threats rather than pursuing citizens over comments directed at political leaders.
He maintained that while he does not support abusive political discourse, criticism and unpopular opinions should not be met with actions that could discourage citizens from expressing themselves freely.
The former Vice President also questioned what he described as inconsistencies in the enforcement of laws relating to speech, suggesting that similar conduct often attracts different responses depending on the individuals involved.
According to him, democratic governance requires the protection of free expression even when opinions are offensive or uncomfortable. He warned that any perception that citizens are being targeted for expressing views about political leaders could damage public confidence in democratic institutions.
Dr Bawumia subsequently appealed to the authorities to reconsider the detention of Awiti and others facing similar circumstances, arguing that Ghana’s democratic tradition is strengthened when citizens are able to express themselves without fear of intimidation.
His comments add a political dimension to a case that has already generated public discussion, with debates now extending beyond the allegations themselves to broader questions about free speech, law enforcement and democratic rights in Ghana.
Source: 3News
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