The recent arrest of Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Bernard Antwi Bosiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has ignited a firestorm of debate, with accusations of political maneuvering flying thick and fast.
While some view the arrest as a legitimate response to serious allegations, including money laundering, others within the NPP are crying foul, claiming it’s a calculated attempt to intimidate prominent figures and stifle dissent against the newly forming NDC government under President John Dramani Mahama.
James Opare, a well-known NPP supporter in the Bantama Constituency, is firmly in the latter cam
He believes Wontumi’s swift arrest, occurring even before Mahama has officially finalized his appointments, raises serious questions.
“This arrest is too quick,” Opare stated, suggesting a deliberate and politically motivated agenda. “It’s a clear attempt to put fear into the popular figures in the NPP to allow the NDC to misrule the country.”
Opare paints a picture of a party under siege, warning fellow NPP members to be vigilant and prepared to defend themselves against further potential attacks.
He sees this as a wake-up call, urging the party to be ready to respond should the focus of perceived persecution continue to fall on prominent NPP leaders during Mahama’s presidency.
However, amidst the accusations and concerns, Opare also issued a plea for calm and unity.
Recognizing the gravity of Wontumi’s predicament, he called for peace within the NPP ranks. He also emphasized the crucial role of constructive criticism and a strong opposition in maintaining a healthy democracy.1
“I also entreat supporters of the NPP to remain vigilant and go ahead with constructive criticism against the government since without opposition the country would collapse to oblivion,” he concluded.
Opare’s sentiments reflect a broader concern within some segments of the NPP, suggesting a heightened sense of unease and anticipation regarding the direction of the new administration and its potential impact on opposition voices.
The arrest of Chairman Wontumi, regardless of its underlying cause, has undoubtedly become a flashpoint, highlighting the already tense political landscape and underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in the days and weeks to come.
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this incident is an isolated case or the harbinger of a wider trend. By CT
