Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has made a fervent appeal to President-elect John Dramani Mahama, urging him to take decisive action to address the alarming behavior of National Democratic Congress (NDC) supporters gathering at collation centers with offensive weapons.
Dr. Bawumia’s call comes amidst reports of violent acts and lawlessness, which he warns pose a significant threat to Ghana’s democratic values, peace, and stability.
The Vice President’s concerns were prompted by incidents in which NDC supporters allegedly besieged collation centers to challenge parliamentary results and protest delays in the declaration of winners for some constituencies. In some instances, these supporters reportedly took matters into their own hands, unilaterally declaring their parliamentary candidates victorious without the endorsement of the Electoral Commission.
Dr. Bawumia strongly condemned these actions, describing them as a deviation from the democratic culture that Ghana has worked hard to cultivate over the years. In a statement issued on December 9, he urged the President-elect to act swiftly and decisively to address the situation.
“I wish to call on the President-elect, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, to exhibit statesmanship by reining in his supporters in order to preserve the peace and unity of the country,” he said. “There have been many incidents of NDC members besieging collation centers with offensive weapons to forcibly declare NDC parliamentary candidates as winners of some parliamentary contests. We believe that this is not in keeping with the democratic culture we are all trying to nurture.”
The Vice President also expressed concerns about the reported dismantling of state institutions, looting of public properties, and acts of intimidation against individuals perceived as sympathizers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). These actions, he noted, have escalated tensions and created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
Dr. Bawumia lamented the apparent silence and indifference of Mr. Mahama and the NDC leadership regarding the violence and intimidation being carried out by their supporters. He described these actions as not only reprehensible but also a direct attack on the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
“I am also saddened by the indifference and silence on the part of Mr. John Dramani Mahama and the NDC in relation to the violence and mayhem being unleashed on members of the NPP and other people perceived to be sympathizers,” Dr. Bawumia stated. “These wanton acts of lawlessness and brutality have been extended to state institutions and public offices, looting and stealing state properties in the process.”
The Vice President highlighted how these acts have disrupted the functioning of public institutions, with some offices forced to close due to threats and intimidation. In an even more concerning development, he noted that the violence has spilled over into private properties, with some individuals receiving death threats.
“It is regrettable that these reprehensible acts are being perpetrated following an electoral process that has been widely touted as credible,” Dr. Bawumia added. “We must at all times place the national interest over and above any individual interest.”
Calling on the President-elect to demonstrate leadership, Dr. Bawumia reminded Mr. Mahama of his responsibility to protect lives and properties during this critical transitional period. He emphasized that winning an election comes with a duty to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliation.
“I would like to remind President Mahama that he has won an election; he has not staged a coup d’état. He has a responsibility to contribute to protecting life and property,” the Vice President remarked.
Dr. Bawumia also warned of the potential consequences if these acts of lawlessness continue unchecked. He noted that the ongoing violence could compel affected individuals to take steps to defend themselves, a situation that could escalate tensions further and tarnish the credibility of the recent elections.
“I believe President Mahama and the NDC know that if these acts continue, people will be compelled to take reasonable steps to defend themselves,” he cautioned. “The last thing anybody wants is to mar the beauty of the successful elections that have just been concluded. Mr. Mahama and the NDC should demonstrate that they are not reluctant democrats.”
The Vice President concluded by reiterating the importance of maintaining peace and unity in the country. He stressed that Ghana’s democracy, which has been built over decades of collective effort, must be safeguarded at all costs.
Dr. Bawumia’s statement serves as a call to action, not only for the President-elect and his party but also for all stakeholders in Ghana’s democratic process. The Vice President’s appeal underscores the critical role of leadership in ensuring that the electoral process remains credible and that the country’s hard-earned reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa is preserved.
As the transition of power unfolds, the actions of political leaders will be closely scrutinized, both locally and internationally. Dr. Bawumia’s message emphasizes the need for all parties to prioritize the national interest over partisan considerations, demonstrating a commitment to the rule of law, respect for institutions, and the preservation of peace and stability.
This appeal is not only a plea for immediate intervention but also a reminder of the collective responsibility to uphold the values that have made Ghana a model of democracy in the region. Dr. Bawumia’s call highlights the urgency of addressing these challenges and ensuring that the will of the people, as expressed through the ballot box, is respected and upheld.
Ghanaians and observers alike will be watching closely to see how this situation is addressed and whether it will serve as an opportunity for leaders to demonstrate their commitment to the principles of democracy and good governance.
