Reports of thuggery and alleged looting at various state institutions have surfaced following the concession of defeat by the NPP presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, ahead of the declaration of the NDC’s John Dramani Mahama as president-Elect in the 2024 presidential elections.

The incidents have sparked widespread concerns, particularly in the Bono Region, where the NDC regional communications officer, Mr. Charles Akowua Tuffour during a press conference held in Sunyani, has addressed the situation.

Meanwhile, some thugs, allegedly affiliated with the NDC, have reportedly ransacked state institutions across the country, targeting government properties.

In Sunyani, specific incidents have been reported at the Sunyani East Collision Center, the Metro Mass Transit workshop, residency, and regional and divisional Forestry Commission offices. Various items, including vehicles, motorcycles, and chainsaw machines, have allegedly been taken away during these attacks.

Despite these claims, the NDC in the Bono Region has strongly disapproved of such behavior. Mr. Akowua Tuffour stated unequivocally;

“The NDC has not ordered or deployed any young man or woman to go to any office across the existing regions to take over government property. That’s why some young men were arrested yesterday, those who went to the Forestry office in the name of our government being in power now. The party disassociates itself from them.”
Mr. Charles Akowua Tuffour NDC Regional Communications Officer

Mr. Akowua Tuffour further stressed the importance of maintaining political maturity. He vehemently stated;

“We condemn it, and we believe that shouldn’t be the style of the NDC. We don’t want to behave like, ‘Oh, somebody did it in 2017, so we should pay them back.’ It won’t grow our democracy, and I don’t think it is a good image for the Bono Region as a whole.”
Mr. Charles Akowua Tuffour NDC Regional Communications Officer

This condemnation comes at a critical time as the country transitions to a new administration. Albeit, the NDC has continued calling for an orderly and peaceful handover process.

Accusations Against Outgoing NPP Appointees

In addition to condemning the alleged thuggery, the NDC has accused outgoing NPP appointees. He accused;

“We are reliably told that the outgoing government appointees, especially the parliamentary candidates, are illegally looting state properties, equipment, and materials. We would like to ask the outgoing Member of Parliament for Sunyani East, Honorable Ameyaw-Cheremeh, if he is in possession of any government transformers, electricity poles, or cables meant for the state. We urge him to release them on time to the assembly stores for proper keeping.”
Mr. Charles Akowua Tuffour NDC Regional Communications Officer

Ayawaso West Wuogon violence 1 2 — Electoral Violence

Mr. Akowua Tuffour appealed to the general public to remain vigilant in these times. He added;

“We would like to task the Ghana Police Service too, as a matter of urgency, to protect all state properties and government belongings. The general public is, in addition, tasked to be watchful to ensure a peaceful and smooth running of the country by the incoming government.”
Mr. Charles Akowua Tuffour NDC Regional Communications Officer

By condemning these acts, the NDC is strategically reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.

As Ghana navigates this critical transition period, the incidents of alleged looting and thuggery serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance and adherence to democratic norms.

The NDC’s public condemnation of these acts and its call for peaceful collaboration underscores the importance of a transparent and orderly transfer of power.

However, with the support of stakeholders and the public, the country can ensure a smooth transition and uphold its democratic integrity.