Former Vice President and NPP flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has strongly condemned the violent incidents that marred the ongoing parliamentary rerun in Ablekuma North, describing them as a betrayal of Ghana’s democratic values.
In an interview, Dr. Bawumia expressed deep concern over the reports of intimidation and assault, particularly targeting NPP supporters.
“These incidents are very disturbing, this is not the kind of democracy Ghanaians voted for. Our supporters are being attacked by thugs right in front of the police, who are failing to protect them,” he stated
Dr. Bawumia pointed to the governing NDC’s responsibility, saying the violence contradicts the democratic ideals they pledged to uphold after winning power in the 2024 general elections.
The Electoral Commission ordered a rerun in 19 polling stations in Ablekuma North after irregularities were detected in the results from the December 7, 2024, elections. However, the rerun quickly descended into chaos.
The most serious outbreak occurred at the St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church polling station in Odorkor, where eyewitnesses say a group of unidentified “macho men” arrived in a pickup truck escorted by motorbikes.
They stormed the polling station, causing widespread panic among voters, electoral officers, and even police personnel.
According to witnesses, the attackers overpowered security officers and physically assaulted several NPP figures, including former Fisheries Minister and ex-MP, Mavis Hawa Koomson.
Footage shows her being thrown to the ground and reportedly stomped in the chest and groin before police finally intervened.
Other victims include NPP parliamentary candidate Nana Akua Afriyie and a female party agent, both of whom reportedly sustained injuries in the attack.
In a separate incident, a JoyNews journalist covering the event was slapped and shoved by one of the assailants.
The incidents have sparked outrage from political leaders and civil society, with renewed calls for swift investigations and accountability to preserve Ghana’s democratic integrity.
