Chaos mar NDC branch elections in Assin Central

Violence erupted at the National Democratic Congress (NDC) branch executive elections in the Assin Central Constituency, after a deputy constituency youth organiser aspirant was allegedly assaulted by a group of unidentified men at the Bamboo Factory polling station in Assin Fosu.

The victim, Mr Yaw Owusu, sustained serious injuries and was initially rushed to the St. Francis Xavier Hospital at Assin Fosu before being referred to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for specialised treatment.

Mr Owusu said the violence followed a disagreement over alleged electoral irregularities during the branch women’s organiser election.

He claimed election officials initially announced that 17 delegates were present to vote, but 25 ballots were counted after voting, prompting him and some supporters to question what they believed was over-voting.

He alleged that, shortly after raising concerns, a group of men believed to be affiliated to the opposing camp attacked him with sticks and sharp objects, leaving him with multiple injuries.

“They ended up twisting my neck,” he narrated.

Medical reports indicated that he suffered a fractured neck, eye injury, as well as head and suspected spinal injuries and because of the severity of his condition, he was referred to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for further treatment.

The injured aspirant has appealed to the National Executives of the NDC, particularly the Party’s National Chairman, Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia, to intervene and called on the police to ensure that those responsible for the attack were identified and brought to justice.

The assault has been reported to the Central North Regional Police Command, which has launched investigations into the incident.

GNA