NDC unveils ‘Asamankese Forces’ vigilante group

The formation of vigilante groups seems to be growing across the country, especially among the two major political parties – the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), despite concerns raised by the National Peace Council, the clergy and civil society groups over the existence of such groups.

Disapproval of vigilante groups became a topical issue following acts of lawlessness and vandalism unleashed on state institutions and individuals by Invisible Forces and Khandahar Boys attached to the NPP after the party won power in 2016.

But, failure to disband the vigilante groups gave impetus to the formation of more of such groups.

The latest constituency to unveil a vigilante group is the NDC branch in the Lower West Akim constituency in the Eastern Region.

The dreaded group, ‘Asamankese NDC Forces,’ the DAILY HERITAGE has gathered, is believed to possess magical powers that shield members from gunshots and knife attacks.

The group was first spotted during the party’s ‘Unity Walk’ at Somanya.

Speaking to the DAILY HERITAGE at a press briefing to declare his intention to contest the Lower West Akyem Constituency organiser position, Aminu Issah, alias ‘organiser general’ said the group is not to foment trouble like the Invisible Forces but to provide sense of security to the party and its supporters.

According to him, most supporters of the party in the settler communities were intimidated by the NPP with threats of driving them away should they vote for NDC, which prevented them from voting in the 2016 election Therefore, the group has been formed to provide a sense of security for such people to enable them to take part in the 2020 elections.