Former Minister for Tourism and Creative Arts, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, has
expressed strong reservations about a recent incident involving the attempted
arrest of Reverend John Ntim Fordjour by officers from the National
Intelligence Bureau (NIB). Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on April 12,
Mr Mercer described the act as deeply troubling and indicative of growing
lawlessness.
The event, which reportedly occurred on April 8, has drawn widespread public
concern and sparked debate over the conduct of state security agencies. Many
Ghanaians have questioned the rationale behind the move, especially in the
absence of clear allegations or legal grounds.
Egyapa Mercer, who also served as the Member of Parliament for Sekondi,
stated that he had gone through Rev. Fordjour’s press release multiple times
and still could not identify any wrongdoing that would justify an arrest. He
emphasized that such actions could set a dangerous precedent and potentially
infringe on democratic freedoms.
“I have read Ntim Fordjour’s press statement read on behalf of the Minority
Caucus in Parliament three times, and I am still at a loss as to what crime he
has committed for the government to want to arrest him,” Mercer said.
He went further to express concern over the direction the country may be
heading. Referring to a pledge by former President John Dramani Mahama to reset
the country, Mercer warned that this should not be a reversal of Ghana’s
democratic gains.
“What kind of lawlessness is this? And it’s early days yet. I hope and pray
that Mr Mahama’s promise of resetting is not one that resets Ghana into a
military era,” he stated.
The remarks come at a time when questions are being raised about the
relationship between security forces and civil authority. Many observers view
the NIB’s attempt as a potential overreach, particularly given the
parliamentary immunity that Members of Parliament enjoy.
Mercer’s comments have added to the increasing calls for a reaffirmation of
democratic norms and proper accountability in the actions of law enforcement
agencies. His stance reflects a growing concern among political figures and
civil society that Ghana must remain vigilant in protecting the rights and
freedoms that define its democracy.
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