Research fellow at the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Dr. John Osae-Kwapong, has demanded stringent action against the NPP’s Parliamentary Candidate for Wassa Amenfi East, following accusations of inciting violence, emphasizing accountability.
Dr. Osae-Kwapong emphasized that taking action against the NPP PC was crucial in demonstrating the country’s zero-tolerance stance and unequivocal condemnation of such egregious actions, serving as a strong deterrent and upholding the principles of justice and accountability.
“…Whether we are taking it [the PC’s comments] or not at least we heard what we heard and reasonable minds can conclude that these comments were very unfortunate comments to have been made”.
“Especially for me in my opinion, especially coming from an aspiring Member of Parliament (MP)…I think it wasn’t the best. It was very distasteful. I am glad that he was invited to come and explain why he said what he said.”
Dr. John Osae-Kwapong
Dr. Osae-Kwapong, while acknowledging the Parliamentary Candidate’s denial of the allegations, expressed hope that the truth will ultimately come to light, emphasizing that certain statements carry consequences and must be held accountable, regardless of the denials.
He asserted that it is only just and fair that the Parliamentary Candidate faces the repercussions of his actions, whether through legal avenues or political accountability, emphasizing that consequences must be borne for one’s words and actions.
He voiced hope that such harmful comments and behaviors will not be incentivized or rewarded through election to parliament, emphasizing the need for accountability and responsible leadership.
“There have to be some consequences for it to show that we condemn these things”. – Dr. John Osae-Kwapong
NDC Candidate Condemns Rival’s Incendiary Remarks
Meanwhile, Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, the NDC’s Parliamentary Candidate for Essikado-Ketan, also denounced the remarks made by Ernest Frimpong, the NPP’s Parliamentary Candidate for Wassa Amenfi East, expressing strong disapproval and condemnation of his statements.
Dr. Ayensu-Danquah emphasized that endorsing such belligerent actions was utterly reprehensible and had devastating implications for environmental conservation and legal compliance, undermining the very fabric of responsible governance and sustainable development.
She voiced profound disappointment and alarm over the remarks, strenuously condemning them as harmful and irresponsible, posing a significant threat to national security, and undermining the safety and well-being of the nation.
“The comment was inexcusable and he should have never said that…To see that a whole PC is saying this about the security forces, it’s very bad…So what he is saying is very sad. It is not good for the security of the country…To put them (security agencies) at risk, I think that, one, it is unconscionable. And two it should never happen again”.
Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah
Moreover, Dr. Ayensu-Danquah contended that this incident exposes a stark leadership vacuum, revealing a glaring lack of wisdom, judgment, and accountability, which imperils the very foundations of democratic governance and public trust. “It is a serious lack of leadership”, she added.
Mr. Ernest Frimpong stands accused of inciting illegal miners to violently resist and attack military personnel who are tasked with enforcing mining regulations, thereby promoting lawlessness and endangering the safety of those upholding the law.
A widely circulated video purportedly captures Frimpong urging miners to confront and defy police and military officers, whom he alleges are corrupt and extorting bribes from them, thereby inciting resistance and potentially violent confrontations with law enforcement authorities.
Although Frimpong has denied the allegations, claiming that his remarks during a two-hour meeting with small-scale miners were taken out of context and misrepresented, his explanation has failed to quell the outrage and demands for accountability that have ensued in the wake of the video’s release.
As such, he was taken into custody and later released on bail after a thorough interrogation, pending further investigation and potential charges related to his alleged incitement of violence against law enforcement officials.
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