Thousands of members and supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) marched through the principal streets of Accra on Thursday in a large-scale demonstration themed "Democracy Under Attack." The protest brought together senior party executives, Members of Parliament, former government officials, youth groups, and grassroots supporters, all calling for what they described as the protection of Ghana's democratic institutions.
Clad predominantly in red and black, the demonstrators gathered at the forecourt of the Supreme Court before embarking on a peaceful march through parts of the capital. Security personnel were deployed along the approved route to manage traffic and ensure public safety throughout the exercise.
According to the NPP leadership, the demonstration was organised to draw national attention to what the party considers growing threats to Ghana's democracy. Among the concerns raised were allegations of selective justice, political intimidation, abuse of state institutions, and what the party describes as increasing pressure on opposition figures. Party officials argued that these developments undermine public confidence in democratic governance and the rule of law.
One of the key issues highlighted during the protest was the recent acquittal and discharge of former MASLOC Chief Executive Sedina Tamakloe Attionu. The NPP contends that the outcome of the case raises questions about consistency and fairness in the administration of justice. Party leaders also referenced the arrests and investigations involving some opposition members, claiming these actions reflect unequal treatment under the law.
Addressing supporters during the march, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin said the protest was intended to defend constitutional governance rather than advance partisan interests. He argued that democracy depends on strong institutions operating independently and called on state agencies to uphold fairness, transparency, and accountability in the execution of their duties.
As part of the exercise, the party's leadership submitted petitions to state institutions, including the Supreme Court, the Presidency, and Parliament, outlining their concerns and urging authorities to protect judicial independence, safeguard civil liberties, and ensure equal application of the law. The NPP maintained that its objective was to encourage stronger democratic governance and accountability.
The demonstration also attracted reactions from political analysts and government officials. While the NPP insisted the march was necessary to defend democratic principles, some commentators argued that Ghana's democratic institutions remain resilient and questioned the party's interpretation of recent events. The differing views reflect the broader political debate surrounding governance and accountability in the country.
The NPP's "Democracy Under Attack" demonstration has become one of the party's most significant public protests in recent months. While party leaders say the march was aimed at defending democratic values and drawing attention to concerns over governance and the rule of law, the issues raised are likely to remain part of Ghana's ongoing national political conversation as citizens and institutions continue to debate the state of the country's democracy.