DFP condemns Northern Violence

Accra, Sep. 5, GNA - The Democratic Freedom Party (DFP) has called for an end to violence, intimidation, insults and the use of inflammatory language during political campaigns.

A statement signed by Mr. Emmanuel Ansah Antwi, the presidential aspirant of the party, condemned reported acts of violence by supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Tamale and Gushiegu.

"Those acts of violence must be condemned in the strongest terms by all well meaning Ghanaians coming ahead of this year's presidential and parliamentary elections."

"The decision Ghanaians have to make as a people on December 7 regarding which political party gets their mandate should be informed by these current developments preceding the elections. The reports of violence and intolerance displayed by some political parties give great cause for concern and we all have to sit up to resist such activities that can destabilize the country," the statement said.

It said it was the wish of the DFP to preside over a united and peaceful country irrespective of political divisions.

"It is one of the cardinal principles of the DFP to employ civility and respect in the conduct of our political life, which unfortunately some political groups find very difficult to ascribe to. The contest for political leadership should not degenerate into a situation in which brothers and sisters living peacefully in age-long communities become enemies who are after each other's blood. It should and must not lead to arson and a state of fear and insecurity," it said.

The statement said there were some flash points as a result of chieftaincy and land disputes which could easily ignite and set the country on fire if political leaders fail to exercise circumspection in their utterances and acts.

"I think as a people, we have to start questioning the sincerity and intentions of political parties that exhibit such tendencies," it said.