The former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Madam Nana Yaa Jantuah has addressed escalating violence in the lead-up to the elections, emphasizing the need for disarmament and peaceful coexistence among political supporters.
She expressed deep concern about recent violent clashes, particularly involving campaign convoys, and stressed the danger this posed not only to political figures but especially to ordinary citizens.
Madam Jantuah highlighted a recent incident involving Cynthia Morrison’s convoy, during which her supporters faced a violent encounter with those of a rival candidate, resulting in injuries. “This morning, I was listening [in the media] and I heard Hon. Cynthia Morrison was nearly assassinated,” she remarked. “Some of the bullets caught some of her people on a campaign,” she continued, noting that the clash between the NPP factions was “unfortunate.”
She further referred to earlier incidents where guns were shot before elections. This, she emphasized does not speak well of the democracy as a country. Reflecting on the impact of such violence, she pointed out that it could potentially stifle women’s interest in politics.
“For a woman, it’s when you do these things that women become afraid to get into politics. Meanwhile, we have an affirmative action bill that says that we should get a certain number of women in our political terrain.”
Nana Yaa Jantuah former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP)
The Danger of Guns in Private Hands
Nana Jantuah raised significant concern over the possession of arms by private individuals, suggesting that it only amplifies violence during election periods.
”I think there is a small arms commission right? I think they should go around to do some swoop to try to get these arms which are in the hands of Private people, and deal with it.
”… To be very honest, we cannot afford to go through this because it’s becoming one too many, we need to get the guns out of private hands.”
Nana Yaa Jantuah former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP)
Additionally, she warned that allowing guns to remain in private hands could further discourage family support for political engagement among women.
“A husband will not allow a wife to go. A mother will not allow a daughter. A son and a daughter will not allow a mother [ to go into politics].”
Nana Yaa Jantuah former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP)
The Role of the Media and Integrity in Reporting
Madam Jantuah expressed concern over criticisms directed at reputable news outlets.
She emphasized the importance of credible journalism in informing the public accurately, especially during sensitive times like elections.
Madam Jantuah emphasized the urgency of disarmament measures as the elections draw closer.
“We have a few days to elections, and I believe [40 days]. It’s just about a month and 10 days, there’s a need for us to take the guns off the streets.”
Nana Yaa Jantuah former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP)
Madam Jantuah stressed that the election outcome should reflect the will of the people rather than intimidation or violence. She emphasized, “Whoever wins, wins [and] whoever loses, loses and it should be on a fairground.”
Reflecting on past conflicts, she expressed frustration at the recurring cycle of violence every election season.
“I don’t think that election should be doom stage. It’s not Armageddon. If you lose that seat, then you move forward. Everybody has a day to lose and a day to win.”
Nana Yaa Jantuah former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP)
The Ordinary Citizens Bear the Brunt
Madam Jantuah’s deep concern centered around the lives and safety of ordinary citizens who often suffer the most from election-related violence.
“The ordinary people, one has been shot. They said three people are in hospital, then it means those of us who are not covered, am talking about the ordinary citizens, they bear the brunt of some of these problems.’’
Nana Yaa Jantuah former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP)
She emphasized that political violence mostly affects those not shielded by security or political power.
She appealed to the general public, particularly young people, not to allow themselves to be drawn into violent acts by political figures.
A Final Plea: “Fire for Fire Must Stop”
Concluding her address, Nana Yaa Jantuah appealed for a halt to the culture of political violence and retaliation.
“Fire for fire must stop,” she declared emphatically. In her view, adopting a more peaceful approach to political competition would contribute to a safer environment for all citizens.
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