Edudzi Tameklo Praises Mahama's Tolerance Amid Baffour Awuah Detention Controversy

National Petroleum Authority CEO Godwin Edudzi Tameklo has affirmed President John Dramani Mahama's tolerance in handling divergent views, particularly regarding the ongoing case involving Manhyia South MP Baffour Awuah. Speaking on Key Points on TV3 Saturday, October 3, Edudzi emphasized that President Mahama is not inclined toward tit-for-tat politics despite NDC officials facing severe treatment in opposition. He cited the ransacking of former COCOBOD CEO Dr Stephen Opuni's residence as an example of ordeals endured by NDC figures, contrasting it with the President's current approach. Edudzi stressed that Mahama would not pursue arrests as a political tool, stating, 'If it was going to be tit-for-tat...President Mahama is not interested.' He also clarified that the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has not violated any laws in the Baffour Awuah matter, referencing Article 14 of the 1992 Constitution which mandates that persons under investigation must be brought before court within 48 hours. Lawyer Martin Kpebu countered that EOCO's detention of Baffour Awuah since his February awareness of the case is legally questionable, arguing that custody does not strengthen EOCO's position and that the Supreme Court has ruled all offences bailable. Kpebu specifically questioned why Baffour Awuah was held for four hours without questioning, calling it a procedural goof. EOCO's October 2, 2026 release confirmed Baffour Awuah's voluntary surrender on October 1 and ongoing investigations, dismissing reports of a GH₵50 million bail as false. The Office affirmed it is working with the Attorney-General's office to meet constitutional timelines, aiming to present him before a weekend court without delaying investigations. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, visiting Baffour Awuah on October 2, accused the NDC government of political witch-hunting, comparing its tactics to a police officer fixated on arresting a driver. He claimed the administration is using corruption tags to silence critics, including social media activists, and warned it is making it difficult for moderate NPP voices to advocate for calm. Afenyo-Markin described Baffour Awuah as a 'sharp shooter' in Parliament whose treatment reflects broader NPP persecution, adding that the MP remains in high spirits despite custody. He lamented that the current climate hinders moderate NPP members from calling for restraint, urging an end to the cycle of political attacks that undermines democracy. The situation underscores rising tensions between the ruling NDC and opposition NPP over perceived selective justice.