NDC threatening peace and security in Ahafo Region — NPP

The Ahafo Regional Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Frimpong Andrews, has raised concerns over recent developments involving the National Democratic Congress (NDC), particularly regarding security and safety in the region.

His comments come amid escalating tensions between the two major political parties.

During a press conference on Monday, September 16, 2024, Mr. Andrews began by thanking attendees for responding to the NPP’s urgent invitation on short notice. He explained that the briefing was intended to address disturbing rhetoric from the NDC’s regional leadership, particularly concerning their stance on law enforcement.

Alarming Claims by the NDC
The press conference was triggered by a statement made by Mr. Apraku Lartey, the NDC’s Ahafo Regional Communications Director, during an event the previous Friday. According to Mr. Andrews, Mr. Lartey claimed that the NDC would no longer allow its youth members to face legal consequences for breaking the law. Mr. Andrews described this assertion as highly troubling, viewing it as an attempt to undermine law enforcement and create unrest, particularly with elections on the horizon.

“We find this very unfortunate and disturbing, especially coming from individuals who should know better,” Mr. Andrews stated, expressing concern that the NDC’s position could incite violence and destabilize the region in the run-up to the elections.

Recounting the Kwapong Incident
A significant part of the press conference focused on an incident in Kwapong on Saturday, September 7, 2024. According to the NPP, the clash began when NDC members, led by a figure known as Akilibobo, disrupted an NPP rally. The group reportedly drove recklessly through the rally grounds on motorbikes and in a Sprinter van, attempting to cause chaos. The situation escalated when stones were thrown, resulting in an NPP supporter, Nana Yaw, being injured.

Mr. Andrews further recounted how the violence intensified when a former NDC chairman, Mr. Gyau, allegedly fired a gun, leading to additional injuries and property damage.

Conflicting Narratives from the NDC
The NDC’s version of the Kwapong incident differs from the NPP’s account. According to the Asunafo South Constituency Secretary, Mr. Yinka Benjamin, the violence erupted when an NPP faction pursued a defector who had joined the NDC. Mr. Apraku Lartey, on a different platform, claimed that NDC youth were returning from a fitness event when they were attacked by NPP supporters without provocation.

“These two conflicting statements from the NDC leadership confirm their attempts to cover up their violent actions,” Mr. Andrews said, accusing the NDC of misleading the public and attempting to shield their members from accountability.

Historical Context of Violence
Mr. Andrews also highlighted a history of violence in the Ahafo Region involving the NDC. He referenced a voter registration exercise in Kukuom earlier in the year, during which NDC members allegedly fired 90 rounds of gunfire. He also mentioned an incident at a meeting hosted by NDC stalwart Collins Dauda, where a misunderstanding led to the fatal shooting of an individual known as Soldier.

Call for Action
In closing, Mr. Andrews urged the police to act swiftly and impartially, emphasizing their constitutional duty to maintain law and order. He reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to peace and support for efforts to ensure stability in the region.

“The dangerous path the NDC has chosen is regrettable and threatens the safety of the people in the region,” Mr. Andrews warned. He added that if the police fail to act, the NPP would not hesitate to intervene through lawful means, such as citizens' arrests.

Conclusion
The NPP has strongly condemned the NDC’s position on shielding its members from legal accountability and has called on all stakeholders to promote peace. With elections fast approaching, the political climate in the Ahafo Region remains tense, and the NPP’s message of law and order is likely to resonate with residents concerned about security.