The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a forceful ultimatum to the Ghana Police Service, demanding the immediate apprehension and prosecution of individuals captured on video allegedly assaulting Bernard Bediako, the party’s parliamentary candidate for Akwatia. The incident occurred during the one-week memorial service for the late Ernest Kumi, a former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament. The NDC’s demand, articulated in a strongly worded statement, stems from their belief that the police have exhibited a pattern of selective enforcement, acting swiftly against NDC members while demonstrating a lack of urgency in cases involving the NPP. This perceived double standard has fueled the NDC’s frustration and fueled their determination to see justice served in this particular instance. The party has given the police until September 1, 2025, to take action, warning that they will take matters into their own hands if the deadline is not met.
The NDC’s presence at the memorial service, which they assert was by official invitation, sparked a violent confrontation with a group allegedly composed of NPP supporters. The NDC delegation, led by National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, included national, regional, constituency, and branch executives, as well as the targeted candidate, Bernard Bediako Baidoo. The mob, determined to prevent Bediako from entering the venue, created a chaotic scene that reportedly distressed the widow of the deceased, adding another layer of complexity to an already tense situation. The NDC condemned the incident as “distasteful” and traumatic, highlighting the emotional toll it took on those present.
The NDC’s statement, signed by Deputy National Communications Officer Godwin Ako Gunn, underscores the party’s perception of a biased legal system. They argue that the police have demonstrated a propensity for rapid arrests and prosecutions when NDC members are involved, while exhibiting a more lenient approach when dealing with NPP members. This perceived disparity in treatment has eroded the NDC’s trust in the police’s impartiality and has led them to issue the ultimatum. The party contends that the perpetrators in this assault case are well-known within the local communities of Boadua, Wenchi, Akwatia, and surrounding areas, suggesting that the police have no justifiable reason for inaction.
The NDC’s ultimatum represents a significant escalation in the ongoing tension between the two major political parties in Ghana. By threatening to apprehend the alleged assailants themselves, the NDC is signaling a willingness to challenge the authority of the police and take direct action to ensure accountability. This stance reflects a growing frustration with what they perceive as a systemic bias within law enforcement. The party emphasizes its readiness to cooperate with the police until September 1, 2025, but their warning to intervene directly thereafter creates a potential flashpoint for further conflict. The situation underscores the fragility of political stability and the urgent need for impartial law enforcement to prevent further escalation.
The incident at the memorial service and the subsequent ultimatum highlight deeper concerns about political violence and the potential for escalating tensions in Ghana’s political landscape. The NDC’s accusation of selective justice raises questions about the impartiality of law enforcement and its role in maintaining peace during politically charged events. The party’s willingness to bypass official channels and take matters into their own hands further complicates the situation and underscores the urgency for a swift and decisive response from the police. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for strong institutions and impartial law enforcement to ensure fair treatment and prevent the escalation of political disputes into violence.
The unfolding events surrounding the assault on the NDC parliamentary candidate have the potential to significantly impact the political climate in Ghana. The NDC’s ultimatum and the police’s response will be closely watched by the public and could set a precedent for future interactions between political parties and law enforcement. The incident highlights the importance of addressing the underlying issues of perceived bias in law enforcement and the need for greater efforts to promote peaceful political discourse. A failure to resolve these issues effectively could further exacerbate existing tensions and create an environment conducive to future conflicts. The situation demands careful consideration from all stakeholders to ensure that justice is served and that the principles of democracy and the rule of law are upheld.
