The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a clear directive to its supporters, emphasizing the importance of respecting legal processes and refraining from any actions that could be construed as unlawful seizure or destruction of government property. This call for restraint comes in the wake of reports suggesting some individuals, allegedly affiliated with the NDC, have engaged in such activities, particularly targeting assets believed to be linked to the outgoing New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration. The NDC leadership has unequivocally condemned these actions, stressing the need for adherence to the rule of law and due process.
The core message from the NDC, conveyed through a statement by Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande, is a plea for calm and responsible conduct during the transition period. Gbande specifically addressed party organizers and executives at various levels, urging them to disseminate this message and ensure compliance among their ranks. The party’s position is that any suspected instances of misappropriation or mismanagement of government assets should be reported to the appropriate authorities, specifically the police, for investigation and subsequent action within the legal framework. This approach, the NDC emphasizes, is crucial to maintaining order and upholding the integrity of the transition process.
The NDC’s directive provides detailed instructions on how to handle various scenarios that might arise during this period. Regarding outgoing NPP government appointees and party supporters suspected of misappropriating government property, the NDC advises its members to file official complaints with the police, who should then initiate investigations and retrieve any misappropriated assets. The party stresses that these assets should remain under police custody until the new government fully assumes power. This procedure, according to the NDC, ensures accountability and prevents the potential dissipation of state resources during the transition.
Concerning post-election recruitment activities by government agencies, the NDC has established a reporting mechanism. Party supporters are instructed to report any such instances to their constituency and regional chairmen, who will then escalate the matter to the transition team for further action. This process aims to monitor and address any potential irregularities or abuses of power related to recruitment during the transition phase.
The NDC has also provided specific guidelines for dealing with individuals, particularly NPP members, found in possession of government assets. The directive is to report such cases to the police, who should then investigate the basis of possession and, if necessary, impound the assets pending further investigation. However, the NDC emphasizes that current government appointees and NPP officials carrying out their official duties should not be interfered with. They should be allowed to continue their work undisturbed until the transition is complete, as the existing government remains in power and its officials retain their responsibilities.
Furthermore, the NDC has cautioned its supporters against unauthorized entry into government offices and premises, particularly for job-seeking purposes. The party stresses the importance of respecting government operations and avoiding any disruption of normal business activities. This directive aims to prevent any actions that could be perceived as harassment or intimidation of government employees during the transition. The NDC leadership has made it clear that seizing government assets, especially consumables, fixtures, and relief items, without proper reporting constitutes theft and will not be tolerated. The party has also emphasized the need for adherence to established party structures and consultation with relevant officials before undertaking any actions related to these matters.
In summary, the NDC’s message is a call for responsible behavior and adherence to legal processes during the transition period. The party has outlined clear procedures for reporting suspected wrongdoing and emphasized the importance of respecting the ongoing functions of government while ensuring accountability for the handling of state assets. This approach, the NDC believes, is essential for a smooth and peaceful transition of power.
