Adenta Kumi’s Arrest Reflects Worrying Trend of Departure from Democratic Principles- OneGhana Movement

OneGhana Movement has condemned the arrest of opposition activist Alfred Ababio Kumi, popularly known as Adenta Kumi, by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).

The politician was arrested on Friday, May 23, 2025, on charges of publication of false news. He was released later on the same day.

In a statement, the Movement said the manner and rationale for his arrest reflect a “troubling departure from these democratic principles”.

“Democracy thrives on freedom of expression, the protection of individual rights, and the equitable application of the law regardless of one’s political affiliation. The arrest of Mr. Kumi under circumstances widely described as heavy-handed, represents a troubling departure from these democratic principles. Such conduct by security operatives poses a serious threat to citizens fundamental right to freely express themselves and hold the government to account.”

Acknowledging the irresponsibility of Kumi in the entire case, it said the response by the NIB storming his residence was wholly unjustified, even if a prima facie case could be made under section 208 of the Criminal and Other Offences Act. 1960 (Act 2g).

It therefore urged all the relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law, ensure transparency in the handling of this case and refrain from actions that fuel division or erode public confidence in democratic accountability.

“Ghana’s progress depends on a political culture grounded in tolerance. fairess. Respect, and justice for all. We trust that the government’s reset agenda will reflect a decisive break from the indiscriminate and unjustified use of the “publication of false news provision in our laws.”

Background
The political activist took to X to claim that some members of the committee currently investigating the Chief Justice had engaged in misconduct that could compromise the integrity of the inquiry.

After the committee’s inaugural sitting, Justices Pwamang and Adibu-Asiedu—along with Supreme Court Justice Yonny Kulendi—were captured in a viral CCTV footage dining with Thaddeus Sory, counsel for petitioner Daniel Ofori, at Santoku Restaurant in the Airport Residential Area of Accra.

Adenta Kumi in reaction to the video alleged that the group was overheard discussing matters related to the ongoing petition.

Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini