Deputy Government Spokesperson Shamima Muslim has expressed concern over the conduct of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) youth wing, citing its consistent disrespect for the presidency. Her comments come after she received a petition from the opposition youth wing during its ‘Yɛgye Yɛ Sika’ demonstration on Tuesday, November 3. The demonstration was part of the youth wing's efforts to present their concerns to the government. Ms Muslim received the petition but was not allowed to respond.
According to Ms Muslim, she had intended to acknowledge receipt of the petition and inform the demonstrators that it would be sent to the Chief of Staff’s Office for onward submission to the President. However, whenever she tried to speak, she was interrupted with singing and chanting immediately after she took the microphone, making it difficult for her to deliver her response. The interruptions hindered her ability to address the demonstrators.
Ms Muslim said the incident was not an isolated occurrence, recalling similar encounters involving other government officials and members of the presidential staff. She mentioned that the NPP youth wing had previously refused to hand over a petition to Nana Yaa Jantua and Sammy Ayeh, a presidential staffer, because they wanted a senior person from the Presidency. This pattern of behavior has raised concerns about the youth wing's respect for authority.
The Deputy Government Spokesperson maintained that political demonstrations should not be an excuse for disregarding basic courtesies, insisting that protesters were expected to show respect while presenting their concerns. She stressed that opposition groups were free to organise demonstrations and submit petitions, adding that the government was willing to listen to their concerns. The government has not arrested or manhandled anyone during the demonstrations.
Ms Muslim also disclosed that the petition presented by the NPP youth wing had been sent to the Office of the Chief of Staff for review. According to her, the government would consider the concerns outlined in the petition and act on them where necessary if they were deemed legitimate. The government remains open to engaging with the opposition and addressing their concerns.
The NPP youth wing's conduct has sparked debate about the limits of free speech and the importance of respecting authority during demonstrations. While the government has emphasized its commitment to listening to the concerns of opposition groups, it has also stressed the need for protesters to show respect for the presidency and other government institutions. The incident has raised questions about the role of youth wings in Ghana's politics.
The incident occurred on November 3, 2026, and has been widely reported in the Ghanaian media. The government's response to the petition and the NPP youth wing's conduct will likely be closely watched by political observers and the general public. The Deputy Government Spokesperson's comments have highlighted the need for greater respect and civility in Ghana's political discourse.
Key points
- The NPP youth wing's conduct has been criticized for disrespecting the presidency and disregarding basic courtesies during demonstrations.
