Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election: Violent acts frightening, worrisome – CSOs

Coalition of National Anti-corruption Civil Society Organization (CSOs) has described the shooting of party members and agents at the Ayawaso constituency as worrying and heartbreaking.

The actions taken by the masked National Security Personnel on the election grounds, according to them has dire consequences for Ghana’s democracy and could trigger rebuttals from the affected persons and or political parties.

“The recorded violent confrontations between the purported masked National Security Personnel and uniformed police personnel is very dangerous for our democracy that can trigger a chain of unwarranted reactions”, the organization stated.

They further noted that Ghana’s ‘peace’ brand should not be tampered with by the actions of some few irresponsible citizens, for which reason government ought to ‘immediately investigate these acts of violence and criminality displayed by the masked men and make public the reports on the investigation and as well as bring the perpetrators to book’.

They also urged leaders, political parties to disband all vigilante groups and employ security agencies who are ready to work to maintain law and order in the country and not those who will abuse their power.

They also added that, political parties should not incite their supporters to be violent but should rather educate them on the need for peace and tranquility in the country.

Background

There was a shooting by some armed security personnel at the residence of NDC Parliamentary candidate for the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency on January 31, 2019.

The event, which occurred close to the poll grounds shook the wrong nerves and sparked chaos at the center.

Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam Dzata George also received some hefty slaps from the attired men when he protested events that happened at the premises of his candidate.

Thirteen party members were injured and were rushed to the Legon and 37 Military hospital for treatment and because of the happenings, the NDC withdrew from the race.

Both the NDC and NPP held press conferences to address the issue and calm their angry supporters.