The New Patriotic Party has warned that it will respond strongly to critics of its flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, following a controversial video that aired on Metro Television. Speaking on the program Good Morning Ghana, Dennis Edward Aboagye, also known as Dennis Miracles Aboagye, stated that the party can no longer ignore what he described as repeated attacks. “There are individuals within our political arena who have been engaging in behaviour that we believe must be addressed,” he told host Moro Awudu.
“This has been going on for far too long, and we will not ignore it any longer.” He emphasised that, although Dr. Bawumia is “a calm and respectable individual,” the party will stand up for him.
“Let me be clear,” he said. “While our flagbearer may be a calm and respectable individual, he represents a broader group, not just himself. As a party, we have a responsibility to protect our members and uphold our values, and that is exactly what we intend to do.” His comments come after a video involving Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong was broadcast before the programme began.
The programme’s host, Moro Awudu, later issued an unqualified apology on air to the NPP and viewers over the broadcast, saying the incident should not have happened. Mr Aboagye described the footage as disturbing. “I have seen the video and I find it deeply troubling,” he said. “It should never have happened, especially on a national platform.”
He acknowledged that an apology had been issued and said the party expected better conduct in future. “An apology has been issued, and we expect that such conduct will not be repeated,” he added. Mr Aboagye also raised concerns about what he called double standards in political commentary.
“It is important to note a pattern in our political discourse,” he said. “Individuals aligned with the NDC often make strong and sometimes offensive remarks on radio and television, targeting leaders and institutions across the board.” He said similar remarks from those linked to the NPP often attract harsher criticism.
“Yet, when similar language is perceived from those associated with the NPP, it is met with a different standard of criticism,” he said. He insisted the party remains committed to issue-based debate, but would not hesitate to respond when provoked. “We believe in fairness and accountability,” he said. “The NPP of today is committed to engaging on issues, but we will also firmly respond when necessary. Respect in our political space must be mutual.”
Source: Edward Acquah
