Political rallies banned in Yendi

The Yendi District Security Council has banned all political rallies in Yendi until further notice. This follows clshes between supporters of the National Democratic Congress, NDC, and the New Patriotic Party, NPP, at the old Yendi market over the weekend. Eye witnesses say a number of kiosks were destroyed while three vehicles were vandalized and a motorbike set ablaze.

The residence of a sub-chief, Zoha Naa was nearly burnt but the timely arrival of personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service prevented any serious damage to property in the house.

Chief Superintendent Awuni Angwubutoge, Yendi Chief Divisional Police Commander said the NDC applied to hold a rally in the town on Saturday, which was granted.

He said at about 2pm, the Police had reports that there was stone throwing as a result of clashes between supporters of the two main political parties.He said the police quickly moved in to prevent an escalation of the clashes and also called for reinforcement from Tamale and nearby regions.

Mr Angwubutoge said 10 people were arrested but were granted police enquiry bail to help ease the tension which was mounting in the town at the time.He denied that the Ya-Na's palace had been burnt.He said the police and the military had intensified their patrols while people were going about their business in a peaceful manner.

Meanwhile, the Divisional commander said calm has returned to Yendi but the security agencies were leaving nothing to chance and would therefore, continue with the patrols and investigations.He said the police were yet to establish the cause of the clashes