Graphiconline has reported about a recent clash between supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC),which resulted in two persons being allegedly shot and four severely injured.The incident happened during a keep-fit walk, which was initially intended to be a peaceful event.
The keep-fit walk, which both parties typically organise every weekend as part of their campaign activities, ended abruptly when a group of motorbike riders from one side encountered the supporters from the other side.
It was reported that during the clash, one of the party supporters allegedly pulled out a pistol and fired several shots.Two of the injured victims were rushed to the Police Hospital, while four others were treated at the MamobiGeneral Hospital.
The altercation reportedly began as a dispute over which group would pass through a particular area, but it escalated into violence.The Regional Police Command later deployed personnel to contain the situation.
Another incident was also reported to have occurred in Aowin Municipality, in the Western North Region, where NDC supporters allegedlylaunched an attack on their NPP counterparts. Â This incidence occurred after protestors against the NPP Parliamentary Candidate,AbangaYakubuFuseini, were spotted on DRIP equipment that were recently imported into the country by the government.
The Chronicle is disappointed with all the perpetrators of the violence which caused these clashes. What began as a peaceful event intended to energise supporters ended in violence, with reports of a firearm being drawn and multiple injuries. These two incidents not only jeopardise public safety, but also raise significant questions about the integrity of our democratic process, as we head into the elections.
The escalation from a verbal dispute to physical confrontation means that the views of others are still not accepted or respected in our communities. In our view, the disagreements were very trivial and ought not to have resulted in clashes.
Such trivial disagreements should never spiral into violence, especially in an environment where political leaders should be modeling civility and respect. The stakes are high in an election year, and it is essential that both parties promote peaceful interactions among their supporters to prevent similar incidents from occurring.
In this context, the role of the police cannot be overstated. The recent violence calls for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to ensure that political activities do not devolve into chaos. The police have a responsibility to maintain order and safety, particularly as campaign activities intensify.
We are, however, aware that the police had issued a statement to indicate that they have commenced investigations into the incidence to get all identified perpetrators arrested to face justice. The Chronicle commends the police for this move because the perpetrators of the violence have to be arrested and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others.
We, however, think that it is vital for the police to enforce regulations regarding the possession of weapons during political events. The reported use of a firearm by one of the miscreants is particularly alarming, but once again we are happy that the police have declared the suspect wanted.
We must demand more than just reactive measures from our police; they must take a stand against any form of political violence and work tirelessly to foster a safe environment for all citizens.
Equally important is the responsibility of party leadership. Both the NPP and NDC must take decisive action to discourage violent behavior among their supporters. The leaders should issue clear statements denouncing violence and promoting peaceful campaigning.
As citizens, we also have a role to play. We must hold our political leaders accountable and advocate for a culture of peace and civility. The potential consequences of political violence extend beyond individual parties; they threaten the very fabric of our democracy.
With elections in less than two months, it is imperative for all stakeholders’politicians, police, and citizens to commit to fostering an environment of respect and safety.
