Desist from electoral violence, we are one nation — NPP

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has appealed to citizens, regardless of their political affiliations, to desist from electoral violence that may mar the beauty of the just-ended polls.

“Elections are not a justification for violence or division. Let us all work together to maintain the peace and stability that have been the hallmark of our democracy,” it said.

“We are one nation with a shared destiny. We have all contributed to building the nation over the last 32 years and must, therefore, defend our democracy,” the party added.

The National Youth Organiser of the party, Salam Mustapha, made the appeal at a press conference in Accra yesterday, in the aftermath of last Saturday’s polls and related violence in some parts of the country.

He urged the Ghana Police Service to maintain law and order at all collation centres to protect the sanctity of the electoral process.

The party also entreated the President-elect, John Mahama, to instruct his supporters to stand down and allow the Electoral Commission (EC) to do its work.

Statesmanship

Mr Mustapha said after the ninth successful election in the Fourth Republic, the presidential candidate of the NPP, Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, graciously conceded to John Mahama on the morning of December 8, 2024, 14 hours after polls closed, prioritising the nation's peace, security and economic stability.

Dr Bawumia’s action, he said, contrasted sharply with John Mahama and the NDC’s posture after the 2016 and 2020 elections.

“We commend our leader and presidential candidate for the admirable statesmanship shown in putting the nation’s interest above all else.

“Let us all remain steadfast in promoting unity and peace as the nation navigates this critical transition,” Mr Mustapha said.

Arrest  

The youth organiser further entreated the police “to act swiftly in protecting and arresting perpetrators of the ongoing acts of violence”.

Mr Mustapha mentioned some constituencies where there were disturbances, including Dome-Kwabenya, Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North, Tema Central, Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Suhum, Akwatia, Fanteakwa North, Kpandai and Karaga.

Others were Gushiegu, Ahafo Ano North, Obuasi East, Ahafo Ano South West, Techiman South, Damongo and Aowin.