Dr. John Kpikpi Condemns Post-Election Violence, Calls for Unity and Restraint

Dr. John Kpikpi condemns post-election violence in Ghana, urging calm and unity among political leaders. He warns that the unrest, involving supporters of the NDC and NPP, threatens the country’s democratic standing. Kpikpi emphasizes addressing grievances peacefully and calls for swift action from law enforcement to protect lives and property.

Dr. John Kpikpi, the leader of the Progressive Alliance for Ghana, has issued a strong denunciation of the recent violence that has erupted across various regions of Ghana following the aftermath of the 2024 general elections. In a statement released on December 16, 2024, he emphasized the necessity for tranquility and called upon political leaders to take immediate measures to restrain their supporters. He warned that the prevailing chaos could jeopardize Ghana’s esteemed status as a model of democracy in Africa.

The unrest, primarily attributed to alleged supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has resulted in significant damage to state properties and confrontations between activists and law enforcement over disputed parliamentary results. Among the alarming incidents reported are the arson of Electoral Commission offices in the Eastern Region, injuries sustained by security personnel working to restore order, and notable disruptions in vital constituencies such as Dome-Kwabenya and Tema Central. Furthermore, there have been incidents of attacks directed at NDC supporters by individuals purportedly affiliated with the NPP.

Dr. Kpikpi expressed deep concern over these developments, categorizing them as “deeply regrettable” and “unacceptable.” He urged pivotal political figures, including President-elect John Mahama and the leadership of the NDC and NPP, to exemplify statesmanship by placing national unity above partisan interests. He articulated, “While political grievances may arise, they must be addressed through legal and peaceful means rather than violence. Ghana’s democracy has long been a beacon of hope across Africa, and these actions threaten to tarnish our global reputation.”

In addition, Dr. Kpikpi appealed to the Ghana Police Service and military forces to act promptly and effectively to protect lives, property, and the integrity of the democratic process. He also encouraged civil society organizations and religious leaders to persist in their efforts to promote calm and accountability across the political spectrum.

Post-election violence remains a significant concern globally, particularly in democracies transitioning between leadership. Ghana, historically regarded as a stable democracy in West Africa, has recently faced challenges following its 2024 general elections. The violent outbreaks linked to political party supporters reflect deeper societal issues, including political polarization and the potential fragility of democratic institutions. The need for unity and restraint among political leaders is critical to maintaining peace and the democratic fabric of the nation.

In summary, Dr. John Kpikpi has unequivocally condemned the recent incidents of post-election violence in Ghana, urging political leaders and supporters alike to prioritize peace and national unity. He highlights the importance of resolving political disputes through legal avenues rather than resorting to violence, emphasizing that such actions undermine Ghana’s democratic reputation. His calls for decisive action from law enforcement and advocacy from civil society reflect a broader desire for accountability and stability in the political landscape of Ghana.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com