The recent Ablekuma North by-election rerun, marred by violence, has cast a long shadow over the upcoming Akwatia by-election, raising concerns about the potential for further unrest. Former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul emphasizes that addressing the Ablekuma North violence decisively is crucial for ensuring a peaceful Akwatia by-election. He argues that government inaction will embolden others to resort to violence, creating a detrimental precedent for future elections. Nitiwul stresses the importance of upholding the rule of law, stating that perpetrators must be held accountable to deter similar incidents in Akwatia and beyond. This proactive approach, he believes, will signal to all parties that violence will not be tolerated in Ghana’s electoral process.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP), having lost their Akwatia parliamentary seat, faces the challenge of contesting a by-election in a climate of heightened political tension. The violence in Ablekuma North, where the NPP also lost, has understandably shaken the party’s confidence in a fair and peaceful electoral process. Nitiwul, speaking on behalf of the minority in parliament, highlights their petition to President Nana Akufo-Addo, urging him to take swift action against those responsible for the Ablekuma North disturbances. The NPP seeks reassurance that appropriate measures will be taken to prevent a recurrence of violence in Akwatia, creating an environment conducive to a free and fair election. Their concern is not merely for their own party’s safety but for the broader integrity of Ghana’s democratic processes.
Nitiwul clarifies Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s statement that the NPP will never forget the events in Ablekuma North. He explains that Bawumia’s words signify the party’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of when they assume power. This underscores the NPP’s dedication to justice and the rule of law, seeking to ensure that those responsible for electoral violence are eventually brought to justice. The statement is not a threat of retribution, Nitiwul assures, but a pledge to pursue justice through legal channels. The NPP intends to use its position, whether in government or opposition, to advocate for a thorough investigation and prosecution of those involved in the Ablekuma North violence.
The NPP’s apprehension about the Akwatia by-election stems from the perceived impunity surrounding electoral violence. They fear that without demonstrable consequences for the perpetrators in Ablekuma North, similar incidents might occur in Akwatia. This concern resonates with the broader public, who also desire peaceful and credible elections. The party’s call for action is thus not solely self-serving but is framed within a larger appeal for a stable and democratic electoral environment in Ghana. Nitiwul’s emphasis on the need for government action highlights the importance of proactive measures to build public trust in the electoral process.
The potential repercussions of unaddressed electoral violence extend beyond the immediate by-election. If left unchecked, such incidents could escalate, undermining public faith in democracy and potentially leading to wider instability. The NPP believes that the government’s response to the Ablekuma North violence will set a precedent for future elections. A firm and decisive response, they argue, will send a clear message that violence will not be tolerated, while inaction will embolden perpetrators and further erode public trust.
The situation underscores the critical role of the government in ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections. The NPP, through Nitiwul’s statements, emphasizes the importance of accountability and the rule of law. By calling for swift action against those responsible for the Ablekuma North violence, they aim to create a secure environment for the upcoming Akwatia by-election and, more importantly, strengthen Ghana’s democratic foundations. The party’s appeal represents a broader concern for the health of Ghana’s democracy, highlighting the need for continuous vigilance and proactive measures to prevent and address electoral violence. This includes not only holding perpetrators accountable but also addressing the root causes of such violence and strengthening institutions responsible for ensuring peaceful elections.
