Busia Institute calls for accountability, protection of civil liberties
The Busia Institute for Rural and Democratic Development (BIRDD) has expressed concern about the manner state security apparatuses are conducting operations at the private homes of prominent members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).
It said such actions could undermine Ghana’s democratic credibility and public trust in state institutions.
“The Busia Institute upholds the imperative that state power must be exercised with responsibility, impartiality and adherence to constitutional norms.
We believe that political opposition is not a crime and that the civil liberties of all citizens must be protected,” the statement signed and issued by the Executive Director of BIRDD, Anane Agyei, said.
Constitutional limits
It noted that in any functioning democracy, security agencies must operate within clear constitutional limits, with professionalism and transparency.
It called on Parliament to exercise its oversight function by investigating the legality and purpose of such operations, while urging the media and civil society to remain vigilant.
“The use of state power must be lawful. It must not be a mechanism for political suppression or fear.
We caution against any conduct that may intimidate citizens or signal the politicisation of security institutions, which could undermine Ghana’s democratic order,” the institute warned.
The statement called for legal redress and renewed national commitment to the principles of democracy and good governance.
The Busia Institute, known for its work in governance advocacy, pledged to continue its role in defending democratic values and speaking out against threats to constitutional order.
Recall
Reports suggest that operatives of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) last Friday stormed the homes of two members of the opposition NPP for their arrest.
They are the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Bosiako, affectionately called Chairman Wontumi, and Alfred Ababio Kumi also known as Adenta Kumi.
