On Friday, November 22, 2024, a fire in Mamfe Akuapem in the Eastern Region burned a campaign communication van that belonged to Sammi Awuku, the parliamentary candidate for the Akuapem North New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Crucial campaign equipment, including a sound system mounted in the trunk, was destroyed, and the van was reduced to ashes as a result of the incident. The vehicle was a part of the campaign caravan that First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo was traveling with to campaign in Akuapem North, a constituency that is primarily composed of Ga-Adangbe supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Although the origin of the fire is still unknown, Sammi Awuku's campaign efforts are said to have suffered a major setback with the loss of the communication van. During campaign events, the van was essential for spreading messages and motivating supporters.
Even though the origin of the fire has not yet been determined by investigators, the incident has raised concerns about security and safety during political campaigns.
Regarding the incident, neither the NPP nor the candidate, Sammi Awuku, have issued an official statement. Nonetheless, the First Lady's regional campaign proceeded according to plan. The constituency's already fierce political climate has become more tense as a result of the campaign van burning, underscoring the difficulties politicians confront in trying to engage voters in strategic battleground districts.