The Greater Accra Regional Police Command has launched an investigation into allegations that ASP Asong Ayrakwa, the Nima District Police Commander, expressed support for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during a gathering in the Ayawaso East constituency.
This investigation follows the circulation of a viral video on social media that appears to show ASP Ayrakwa chanting, “We will win.” The phrase, reportedly associated with the NDC’s campaign slogan, has raised concerns about the officer’s impartiality.
The video quickly sparked public debate, with some viewers interpreting ASP Ayrakwa’s words as a political endorsement. Given his position as a police officer, any perception of bias could impact public trust.
In response, the Greater Accra Regional Police Command has called for a thorough examination of the incident to determine whether the officer’s remarks were indeed politically motivated.
In light of the video, the Greater Accra Regional Police Command held a meeting with representatives from both the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ayawaso East and Ayawaso North constituencies.
During this discussion, representatives from both political parties voiced their views on the incident. Rather than endorsing the allegations against ASP Ayrakwa, the party representatives advised the police to handle the matter cautiously, emphasizing that rushing to conclusions could be counterproductive.
Representatives from both the NDC and NPP highlighted the officer’s previous efforts to maintain peace in the community. The Constituency Chairman of the NDC in Ayawaso East, Mohammed Ramne, spoke in defense of ASP Ayrakwa’s record, expressing frustration over the allegations.
“This district commander has been working so hard to make sure that there is peace in Nima,” he said, “for somebody somewhere to doctor a video saying that the district commander is saying that NDC will win. In fact, God will punish the person.”
On the other side, a representative from the NPP in the constituency sought to clarify the meaning of ASP Ayrakwa’s statement, suggesting that his words may have been misinterpreted.
“The comment ‘we will win’ doesn’t mean NDC will win or NPP is going to win. Peace will win; we should use our wisdom,” the representative said, framing the statement as one of hope for community harmony rather than partisan support.
Despite these calls for caution, the Greater Accra Regional Police Command has made it clear that an independent investigation will proceed.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Arhin Kwasi Annor, the Greater Accra Regional Police Commander, acknowledged the views shared by both parties but emphasized the importance of an impartial investigation.
“You are saying that he was talking about peace and that peace should win. That is your side. We are also going to conduct our own investigations,” DCOP Annor stated, underlining the police command’s commitment to neutrality and transparency.
This incident comes amid heightened political tension in the lead-up to national elections, underscoring the importance of impartiality in law enforcement. For ASP Ayrakwa, the outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for his career and the perception of the police force’s neutrality in a politically charged environment.
The Greater Accra Regional Police Command’s investigation will likely include a review of the video, interviews with witnesses, and consultations with community leaders to assess the context of ASP Ayrakwa’s remarks. Public response to this investigation remains varied, with some calling for accountability and others advocating for patience until the facts are established.
As the inquiry unfolds, the police command’s handling of this case may serve as a litmus test for its broader commitment to impartiality and fair treatment of all political entities.
The final determination of ASP Ayrakwa’s intent will be closely watched by both the public and the political community, who are keen to ensure that law enforcement maintains its role as a neutral party amid Ghana’s vibrant political landscape.
