The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has appealed for political restraint, urging the John Dramani Mahama administration to abandon "retribution and intimidation" in favour of a unified national agenda.

Addressing a packed congregation at the National Mosque in Accra during an Islamic Thanksgiving and Prayer session on Friday, 13th February 2026, Dr Bawumia warned that Ghana’s democratic stability is being threatened by a rising tide of political tension.

His comments come at a sensitive time for the nation, with several high-profile legal battles, including the Ken Ofori-Atta saga.

Standing before the Chief Imam and hundreds of worshippers, Dr Bawumia used the platform to send a direct message to the seat of government. He argued that the Ghanaian people are already under significant economic strain and should not have to endure the added burden of political instability.

“I would like to use this sacred moment to appeal respectfully and firmly to the government of the day. Ghana has been through a lot. Our people are still under lots of pressure. This is not the time for retribution, intimidation, or settling of political scores. It is time to lower the temperature, heal the nation, and govern in a way that reassures every Ghanaian that they are safe, respected, and valued regardless of how they voted,” Dr Bawumia declared.

The NPP leader emphasised that the mandate of leadership is for the benefit of all citizens, not just those who belong to the ruling party, noting that governance must never be "reduced to vengeance."

Dr Bawumia’s speech touched on the heavy responsibilities of the era, suggesting that the current challenges facing the country require a level of maturity and humility that transcends partisan bickering.

He challenged the political class to focus on serious work rather than the pursuit of personal or political vendettas.

“Ghana is bigger than any party. Our democracy must never be reduced to vengeance. There is work to be done, serious work, the kind of work that requires patience, listening, learning and showing up even when the applause is absent. The kind of work that places country before comfort and duty before ego,” he stated.

He concluded his remarks with a message of resilience to the general public:

“If you do not focus on how people are opposed to you or offended by you, you will be able to build an environment where everyone eventually brings their best to help in achieving the bigger goal.”