Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has called on politicians to adopt a more effective approach to ending the cycle of violence that has marred recent elections.
His comments follow the Ablekuma North rerun, held across 19 polling stations on Friday, July 11, which was characterised by chaotic scenes as thugs stormed voting centres and attacked voters, journalists, and election officials.
The violence has heightened tensions ahead of the anticipated Akwatia by-election, necessitated by the passing of Member of Parliament, Ernest Yaw Kumi.
The late New Patriotic Party (NPP) lawmaker died on Monday, July 7, after a short illness.
His death came months after a protracted legal battle over his victory in the 2024 parliamentary elections.
Gbande condemned threats of violence reportedly coming from some NPP members, cautioning that such rhetoric only endangers lives and undermines Ghana’s democratic gains.
“It is for all of us as political leaders to begin to find a better alternative on how to go into elections without violence,” he said on Accra-based Asempa FM.
“What is just worrying is the preparation… the idea that because of Ablekuma North, we will meet NDC people there, we’ll crush them, we’ll fight them, we’ll kill them, we’ll shoot them. What if your gun doesn’t shoot and you don’t return home alive?” he warned.
Gbande further noted that the NDC has not yet decided whether to contest the by-election, as its focus remains on mourning the late MP.
He added that any decision on participation would come after consultations among the party’s top leadership.
