The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) says persistent insecurity and selective accountability have weakened public confidence in governance one year into President John Dramani Mahama’s presidency.

In its January 2026 assessment, CDM pointed to the prolonged conflict in Bawku, which has resulted in periodic violence, loss of life, and destruction of property, as evidence of the state’s failure to fully protect citizens.

“The continued insecurity in Bawku represents not only a humanitarian concern, but a constitutional and legal challenge demanding urgent and sustained state action,” the statement said, citing Ghana’s obligations under both the 1992 Constitution and international human rights law.

The group also criticised the frequent use of nolle prosequi and the selective discontinuation of high-profile cases, warning that perceived tolerance for impunity erodes trust in the rule of law.

While acknowledging relative exchange rate stability and attempts at national dialogue, CDM concluded that President Mahama’s first year has been marked by missed opportunities, urging him to reset his approach to governance and place the welfare of ordinary Ghanaians at the centre of policy decisions.