Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumiahas expressed concern over what he described as “lawlessness and thuggery” being perpetrated by some supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following the announcement of election results.
In a statement issued on December 9, Dr Bawumia called on President-elect John Dramani Mahama to demonstrate statesmanship by reining in his supporters to ensure peace and unity in the country.
“I wish to call on the President-elect, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, to exhibit statesmanship by reining in his supporters in order to preserve the peace and unity of the country,” Dr Bawumia urged.
According to the NPP presidential candidate, there have been incidents of NDC members besieging collation centres, allegedly forcing declarations in favor of NDC parliamentary candidates while others have vandalised state agencies.
He noted that such actions undermine the democratic culture Ghana has worked to nurture.
Dr Bawumia also expressed disappointment at what he described as the NDC’s silence in the face of violence and intimidation against members of the NPP, state institutions, and individuals perceived to be NPP sympathizers. “These wanton acts of lawlessness and brutality have been extended to state institutions and public offices, looting and stealing state properties in the process,” he said.
The former vice president further noted that some public offices had been forced to shut down due to safety concerns, while private homes and properties had reportedly been targeted, with individuals receiving death threats.
Dr Bawumia criticised the acts as regrettable, especially following an election process that has been widely praised as credible. He emphasized that the national interest must take precedence over personal or party interests.
“I would like to remind President Mahama that he has won an election; he has not staged a coup d’état. He has a responsibility to contribute to protecting life and property,” Dr Bawumia stated, cautioning that continued violence could compel people to take measures to defend themselves.
Dr Bawumia ended his statement by urging Mr Mahama and the NDC to demonstrate their commitment to democracy and ensure that the post-election period remains peaceful.
Meanwhile, President-elect John Mahama has already called on members of the NDC to desist from acts of vandalism following his victory in the 2024 general elections.
Speaking during his victory speech at his campaign office on December 10, John Mahama addressed reports of damage to government property by some party supporters.
“There have been reports of acts of vandalism at some government facilities and installations. I urge you not to vent your frustration in a criminal enterprise,” Mr Mahama cautioned.
He urged party members to redirect their energy and emotions towards productive efforts, stressing the importance of unity in rebuilding the nation.
“We must channel our anger and frustration into the positive enterprise of resetting and rebuilding our nation,” he said.
Source: myjoyonline.com