NPP to hold ‘Yen Suro Ahunahuna’ protest in Sunyani over party official’s arrest

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is set to stage a protest today, Wednesday, April 22, in Sunyani, a move expected to heighten political tensions in the Bono Region. The planned demonstration comes at a time of increasing political activity in the area, with observers closely monitoring developments for their potential national implications.

The demonstration, dubbed the “Yen Suro Ahunahuna” demonstration—an Akan phrase meaning “We are not afraid of intimidation”—is expected to attract party supporters, sympathisers and residents from across the region. Organisers say the protest is intended to send a strong message about resilience and the protection of democratic freedoms.

The protest follows the arrest of the Sunyani East Communications Officer of the party, Abubakar Yakubu, popularly known as Baba Amando. His detention has quickly become a rallying point for party members and has intensified political discourse within the region.

According to party officials, his detention has sparked concern among members, who argue that the circumstances surrounding the arrest raise questions about the protection of fundamental human rights, including freedom of speech and political expression. They insist that such rights are essential pillars of Ghana’s democratic system and must be upheld at all times.

Regional executives of the NPP have described the arrest as troubling and are calling for greater transparency from law enforcement authorities. They have urged authorities to clearly communicate the basis of the arrest and ensure due process is followed.

They maintain that the protest is not only about the arrest of Baba Amando but also a broader call to safeguard democratic principles and civil liberties in the country. According to them, the demonstration represents a collective effort to defend constitutional governance and prevent any perceived erosion of rights.

The party says the demonstration will provide a platform to highlight concerns over what it describes as growing threats to constitutional rights and the rule of law. Political analysts note that such protests often serve as a means for opposition parties to mobilise support and draw attention to governance issues.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has assured the public that adequate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure the protest remains peaceful and orderly. Security presence is expected to be heightened in and around key areas of Sunyani to manage crowds and maintain public safety.

Police have also urged participants to cooperate with security personnel and comply with laws governing public demonstrations. They emphasized the importance of peaceful conduct to avoid any disruptions or incidents during the protest.

The outcome of the demonstration is likely to influence political conversations in the Bono Region and beyond, particularly regarding issues of civil liberties, law enforcement accountability, and the broader democratic environment in Ghana.