Obiri Boahen to Mahama: Raise the Bar, Stop Using Trump Tactics1 min read

Lawyer Nana Obiri Boahen, a former deputy general secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has taken aim at John Mahama for his recent criticisms of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia following the latter’s visits to Chiefs, Clergy, and Imams.

Lawyer Nana Obiri Boahen suggested that Mahama’s rhetoric reflects a desperate bid for political power, drawing parallels to U.S. Republican candidate Donald Trump.

He expressed disbelief at Mahama’s attacks on Bawumia’s respectful outreach, asserting that there’s nothing inappropriate about engaging with traditional leaders and spiritual figures. He urged Mahama to elevate his discourse and present himself with more civility.

Furthermore, he noted that condemning someone’s faith is unacceptable, pointing out that Mahama, a member of the Assemblies of God, also interacts with Chiefs and Clergy.

In context, Mahama criticized Ghana’s traditional leaders, accusing them of bias toward the ruling NPP and undermining the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

During a gathering at the Alogblogshie Anglican Church, he lamented the lack of accountability from these leaders, who he claimed are failing to challenge the NPP’s governance.

Mahama’s frustrations stem from a series of defeats in the 2016 and 2020 elections, and he expressed disappointment over the apparent favoritism shown towards Bawumia by the same leaders who should remain neutral.

In response to Mahama’s comments, Dr. Bawumia labeled them as “indecent” and emphasized the need for respectful political dialogue, urging that the upcoming elections focus on ideas rather than insults. He remarked on Mahama’s perceived bitterness and called for a more constructive political environment.