BTA2023 Mohammed Ibrahim, a Sowutuom Branch Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who was sentenced to four years in prison for making threats ahead of the December 7, 2024, elections, has been granted bail by the Court of Appeal.
The court granted Ibrahim bail in the sum of GH₵100,000 with one surety pending the outcome of his appeal. A three-member panel, presided over by Justice Senyo Dzamefe, ruled that there was an error on the face of the record, warranting a reconsideration of his detention.
As part of his bail conditions, Ibrahim is required to report to the Regional Crime Officer every two weeks.
Legal Proceedings
Earlier, Ibrahim’s request for bail was denied by the High Court. However, his lawyer, Nii Kpakpo Samuah Addo, proceeded to the Court of Appeal, challenging the conviction and seeking his release.
Ibrahim was convicted by an Accra Circuit Court last year and sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty on multiple charges, including:
| Charge | Sentence |
|---|---|
| Publication of false news with intent to cause fear and alarm | 3 years |
| Threat of harm | 4 years |
| Offensive conduct to breach the peace | 3 years |
The court ruled that the sentences would run concurrently.
Background of the Case
Prosecutors stated that Ibrahim identified himself as the leader of a revolutionary group called “Ka na wu” (Twi for “Speak and Die”).
On September 3, 2024, the Ghana Police Service was alerted to a viral video circulating on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok, in which Ibrahim, wearing a red military beret, accused the police of recruiting fake officers under the directive of Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare and the then Minister of the Interior, Henry Quartey, to harm citizens during the elections.
He further claimed that he and his associates knew where the Minister resided and threatened violence in the event of political unrest.
Following the circulation of the video, the police declared Ibrahim wanted on September 10, 2024, leading to his arrest. A search of his residence in Sowutuom resulted in the discovery of the red beret seen in the video.
Ibrahim’s appeal will now determine whether his conviction and sentence will be overturned or upheld.
