The Majority New Patriotic Party (NPP) group in Parliament has fingered former National Security Co-ordinator Lieutenant Colonel Larry Gbevlo-Lartey (Rtd) and first Minister for National Security under the 4th Republic, Kofi Totobi Quakyi as kingpins leading National Democratic Congress (NDC) thugs to unleash violence on members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
According to the group, reported post-election violence and intimidation are orchestrated by a terror NDC group under the supervision of these two men.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday January 4 in Parliament, Deputy Majority Leader, Patricia Appiagyei, condemned these acts and called on the NDC to prioritize governance over chaos.
“Violence, intimidation, and lawlessness have no place in our democratic process. The people of Ghana deserve peace and stability, not acts of thuggery that threaten our nation’s progress.”
Incidents of violence
The Deputy leader stressed a series of violent incidents allegedly carried out by NDC-affiliated thugs, which she said have marred the peaceful conduct of the elections and its aftermath.
She indicated that in Damongo, the NDC set the Electoral Commission office abla while at Tepa and Ayensuano, arson attacks destroyed electoral materials among many others.
These incidents, according to Hon Patricia Appiagyei, are alarming and demonstrate a lack of respect for the democratic process and the rule of law.
The NPP accused the NDC leadership of orchestrating these violent acts led by Gbevlo Lartey and others with the tacit support of President-elect John Mahama and warned of intelligence suggesting plans to intensify such attacks after the swearing-in.
“We call on the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to act swiftly, professionally, and without fear or favour. Anyone involved in these heinous acts must be apprehended and brought to justice, irrespective of their political affiliation,” Hon. Appiagyei urged.
Focus on development
The NPP advised President Mahama to prioritize governance and avoid actions that could destabilize the nation.
“Your electoral mandate is for governance and the betterment of the country, not an endorsement of chaos and lawlessness. Focus on the numerous promises you made to Ghanaians and leave the NPP alone,” the Deputy leader stated.
The Majority assured Ghanaians of its commitment to a peaceful transition and collaboration with all stakeholders, including the NDC, to safeguard the country’s stability despite the concerns.
The government, she said, has already put measures in place for a smooth transition come January 7 and NPP in Parliament is ever ready to work with civil society, traditional leaders, and other partners to uphold peace and democratic values.
The Deputy Majority leader appealed to all citizens to reject violence and uphold the principles of tolerance, mutual respect, and democracy stressing, “We must stand together as Ghanaians to ensure that no one undermines the peace and stability we cherish.”
