Ghana's political landscape was rocked by controversy as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a fervent response to the arrest of Hon. Collins Dauda, Member of Parliament for Asutifi South, in connection with alleged disturbances during the ongoing voter registration exercise.
The NDC's statement rebutted claims by the Ghana Police Service, asserting Dauda's innocence and shedding light on the tumultuous events that transpired at the Kukuom registration center in the Asunafo South constituency.
According to the NDC's account, the center was besieged by a group of approximately 40 individuals affiliated with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Clad in masks and military-like apparel, these individuals, described as "NPP thugs," initiated violent confrontations, targeting perceived first-time NDC voters and intimidating election officials and observers.
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos and brutality as NDC members, including Daniel Arthur, were subjected to physical assault.
Despite police intervention, the situation escalated, culminating in a harrowing incident where an NPP member allegedly blocked a vehicle carrying NDC supporters, brandishing a firearm and firing shots.
The NDC vehemently denied Dauda's involvement in the disturbances, emphasizing his absence from the scene and active engagement in monitoring the registration process in his constituency.
The party condemned what it perceived as the Ghana Police Service's hasty actions and called for a fair and impartial investigation into the matter.
Moreover, the NDC expressed concern over a pattern of violence targeting its supporters across the country, citing incidents in Adugyama as evidence.
The party urged the Ghana Police Service to uphold its duty to protect all stakeholders in the voter registration exercise and demanded accountability for perpetrators of violence.
As tensions simmered, the NDC reiterated its commitment to peace and urged its supporters to remain vigilant while asserting their right to self-defense against any acts of aggression.
The unfolding events underscored the fragility of Ghana's democratic process and the imperative of safeguarding electoral integrity amidst political polarization.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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