New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, has criticised President John Dramani Mahama over what he describes as excessive political interference in critical state institutions, warning that such actions could destabilise Ghana’s democracy.

According to citinewsroom.com report on October 22, 2025, Agyepong said he was deeply disappointed in the President’s handling of the military and judiciary, institutions he believes must remain independent and free from political manipulation.

“I am a bit more disappointed in our current president, the way he dealt with the army, which I felt was touching a very vital state institution. So, I feel very uncomfortable when I see presidents tinker with state institutions,” he lamented.

Kwabena Agyepong decries over-politicisation of Ghana’s governance system

He further expressed concern that the President’s recent decisions have blurred the separation of powers that underpins Ghana’s democratic system.

“Not only that, but he also moved on to the judiciary, which is one of the three legs of our democracy. I think that the idea that one leg of democracy can take over the other is something that all of us have to repudiate and find a way to protect,” he cautioned.

Agyepong’s remarks come in the wake of President Mahama’s controversial dismissal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo on September 1, 2025, under Article 146(9) of the Constitution.

The move followed a Committee of Inquiry’s recommendation after finding allegations of misbehaviour proven.

The NPP hopeful also referenced the President’s earlier decision in March 2025 to overhaul the top hierarchy of the Ghana Armed Forces, which led to the removal of the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chiefs of Army, Navy, and Air Staff, along with 12 other senior officers.

NPP Flagbearer Race: Kwabena Agyepong calls for debate to elevate campaign discourse

Agyepong urged respect for institutional independence, saying Ghana’s democratic progress depends on keeping political influence out of the military, judiciary, and other key arms of government.

MRA/MA

US Embassy official allegedly pickpocketed at ShattaFest