A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Team, Owusu Banahene, has described the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as the most violent political party in Ghana’s history.
Speaking in an interview monitored by Happyghana.com ahead of the September 2 Akwatia by-election, Mr. Banahene argued that the NPP had no moral right to speak on matters of security, alleging that its record is riddled with violent incidents during electoral processes.
He cited a recent comment by the NPP’s Deputy General Secretary, Haruna Mohammed, who reportedly said the Police could not guarantee the party’s security, hence they would protect themselves.
According to Mr. Banahene, such remarks raise national security concerns and warrant close monitoring by the Inspector-General of Police.
Mr. Banahene further referenced the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election violence, alleging that NPP-aligned groups attacked residents, with then-Minister Bryan Acheampong later admitting to deploying operatives to the scene.
He also mentioned incidents during the Assin North by-election, accusing NPP “hooligans,” allegedly linked to Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi), of vandalizing properties belonging to NDC members. Among the victims, he said, were National Youth Organizer George Opare Addo and Communications Officer Malik Basintale, whose vehicles were damaged.
Mr. Banahene therefore urged the NPP to keep quiet on security issues and called on the IGP, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, to remain vigilant and ensure peace in Akwatia before, during, and after the polls.
