The traditional leadership of New Edubiase in the Ashanti region of Ghana has issued a stern warning against post-election violence, particularly targeting supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Oguahyia Oduro-panin Birikorang, the chief of New Edubiase, expressed deep concern over the escalating unprovoked attacks allegedly perpetrated by NDC youth in the area following the December election results. He emphasized that such behavior would not be tolerated and that the traditional council was prepared to take decisive action to restore peace and order if the violence did not cease immediately. The chief’s warning came during a meeting with leaders of various political parties, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the collective responsibility to maintain a peaceful environment.
Central to the chief’s condemnation was the alleged involvement of the Zongohene of New Edubiase, Abdulai Baba, in the violent incidents. Oguahyia Birikorang criticized Abdulai Baba, also a traditional leader, for his purported support of the attacks, emphasizing the critical role of traditional leaders in promoting peace, particularly in the sensitive post-election period. The chief’s call for an end to the violence was reinforced by a plea to the district police to strengthen their efforts to ensure law and order, prevent further destruction of property, and protect lives within the community. This appeal highlights the interconnectedness of traditional and formal law enforcement in maintaining societal harmony.
Nana Akua Dwum II, the Queen mother of New Edubiase, echoed the chief’s concerns and expressed her dismay at the unprecedented nature of the violence. She lamented the destruction of property attributed to some NDC youth, emphasizing the unsettling deviation from the historically peaceful nature of New Edubiase. The Queen mother’s condemnation added weight to the call for accountability, urging the police to swiftly apprehend those responsible for the violence and ensure they face the full consequences of their actions. This reinforces the commitment of the traditional leadership to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for the victims of the unrest.
The combined statements of the chief and queen mother paint a picture of a community grappling with unexpected post-election violence and a determined leadership striving to restore peace. Their explicit condemnation of the alleged perpetrators, coupled with the call for police intervention, underscores the seriousness with which the traditional authorities view the situation. Furthermore, the chief’s direct criticism of the Zongohene’s alleged involvement highlights the expectation of leadership accountability at all levels of the community.
The events in New Edubiase underscore the fragility of peace in the aftermath of closely contested elections and the critical role of community leaders in managing tensions and preventing violence. The proactive stance taken by the chief and queen mother, calling for an immediate end to the violence and urging both community members and law enforcement to act responsibly, demonstrates their commitment to protecting the wellbeing of their community. Their emphasis on dialogue with political leaders further highlights the importance of inclusive engagement in resolving conflicts and building sustainable peace.
The situation in New Edubiase serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by many communities in maintaining peaceful coexistence, particularly during and after elections. The decisive action taken by the traditional leadership, combined with the involvement of law enforcement, offers a potential roadmap for addressing similar situations. The focus on accountability for perpetrators, coupled with calls for dialogue and peaceful resolution, underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach to building sustainable peace and preventing future outbreaks of violence. The long-term stability and prosperity of New Edubiase will depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders to uphold the rule of law, promote tolerance, and prioritize the wellbeing of the community.
