‘The World Is Watching’ — Kwasi Kwarteng Demands Justice for Slain Ghanaian Teen in New York

A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team, Kwasi Kwarteng, has called on United States security authorities to ensure justice is served following the killing of 15-year-old Ghanaian teenager, Javits Badu Nkansah Frimpong, in the Bronx, New York.

According to him, the Ghanaian community and the wider international community are closely monitoring developments in the case and expect US authorities to ensure that those responsible are identified and held accountable.

Javits was fatally shot by unidentified assailants at about 9:20 a.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2026, while on his way to school in the Bronx. The incident has also sparked concerns over reports of alleged bullying at his school.

Speaking in an interview with Sammie Wiafe on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, October 31, Mr Kwarteng said that while Ghana could not dictate the operations of the US criminal justice system, it had every right to demand justice through diplomatic channels.

“We cannot dictate how the U.S. criminal justice system should operate, but at least we can make a call, a polite one, but also a firm one through the Embassy of the United States that it is something that the international community is watching,” he said.

He stressed that Ghanaians both at home and abroad would be following the case closely to ensure that justice is delivered for the teenager and his family.

“It is something that the entire Ghanaian community, we are all watching to be able to make sure that at the end of the day justice is truly served,” he stated.

Mr Kwarteng described the killing as deeply disturbing and unacceptable, insisting that every child must be able to pursue an education without fear for their safety.

“I maintain that no child should lose his life whilst he’s going to school. A child going to school should be able to learn, should be able to realise his dreams, and at the end of the day should be able to come home safely,” he said.

He also reflected on the role of moral and religious values in shaping the conduct of young people, arguing that society should not overlook principles that help discourage violence and promote respect for human life.

While acknowledging that religion alone may not provide all the answers to societal problems, he maintained that it still offers important remedies and guidance in addressing issues of violence and indiscipline.

“Maybe some way, somehow, religion may not be the absolute answer, but it still provides some remedies in situations like this,” he said.

Mr Kwarteng further expressed shock over reports surrounding the circumstances of the shooting, particularly claims that a student allegedly pursued and shot a fellow student.

“I don’t see why a student would pull a gun and chase his colleague who is running for his life and kill him. But it happened,” he said.

He called on the international community to join demands for justice and accountability in the case.

“We call on the rest of the world to demand justice for Mr Javits Frimpong and his entire family,” he added.

— Citi Newsroom