NCCE condemns activities of vigilante groups
The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has added its voice to the condemnation of activities of vigilante groups and the request for their immediate ban to safeguard peace and security of the people.
The commission said the ban on political vigilante groups would also enhance the country’s democratic dispensation.
These were contained in a press release signed by the director, Communications and Corporate Affairs of the NCCE in Accra yesterday.
The release expressed concern at the lawless activities of the vigilante groups and criticised the alleged forceful removal of the Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator from office and the attack by the Delta Force on the Kumasi Metropolitan Circuit Court.
It said such activities breached the principle of the rule of law and did not augur well for the consolidation of democracy as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution.
The commission expressed alarm at the springing up of vigilante groups in the country and described it as a threat which could lead to a breakdown of law, order, peace and security.
It called on political parties, especially the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to ban and dissolve any existing vigilante groups within their respective parties to avoid any mob action from such groups.
It welcomed the prompt condemnation and reaction from relevant institutions and peace-loving Ghanaians and urged the Police Service to fast-track investigations into the matter, apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators in accordance with the law without fear or favour.
The commission called on all Ghanaians, especially the youth, to rise up against such groups and remain calm and trust that authorities mandated to ensure peace and security would do their work.
It urged religious bodies to use their platforms to preach against vigilante groups, adding that; “As a people, we all must strive to protect our young democracy and remember to defend our nation by becoming responsible citizens rather than engaging in acts that can only lead us into anarchy.”