The Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has offered a robust defense of alleged party supporters accused of vandalizing state properties and attacking state institutions. Gbande contends that these individuals were not engaging in acts of violence but were instead taking steps to protect state property from potential misuse or theft.
Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, Gbande clarified the party’s position and reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order in collaboration with law enforcement agencies. He emphasized that the actions of the accused individuals should not be misconstrued as criminal behavior but rather as a proactive effort to safeguard state resources during a period of transition.
According to Gbande, the alleged supporters were motivated by a sense of responsibility to ensure that public assets were not unlawfully removed or misappropriated. He highlighted the frustration of many young people in Ghana who are determined to challenge what they perceive as systemic corruption and impunity in the management of state resources. Gbande argued that this context is essential to understanding the actions of the accused.
“The young people of this country are determined to change the narrative of our country, where people steal government property and government money with impunity,” Gbande stated. He acknowledged that while the situation is unfortunate, it underscores a growing demand for accountability and transparency in public office.
Gbande went further to differentiate between actions motivated by a desire to protect public resources and those driven by self-interest. “If the situation was that they were also stealing and taking it home, then it is a different matter,” he explained. “But if it is the case that they are moving and protecting state assets that government officials are taking away, then I think that it is a problem the party has come to appreciate, which we are dealing with.”
The NDC Deputy General Secretary revealed that the party has been actively working with the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to address the matter and ensure that law and order are upheld. He noted that the collaboration extends to certain individuals within the previous administration who remain in office, describing their efforts as part of a broader initiative to regularize the situation.
“We have been working with the Inspector General of Police, cooperating with some skeletal individuals within the former government who are still at post to try and regularize the situation,” Gbande said. He stressed the importance of maintaining open communication and fostering collaboration between the NDC, law enforcement, and relevant stakeholders to resolve the issue amicably.
Gbande’s comments have sparked a mixed reaction from the public, with some commending the NDC for taking a stand against corruption and advocating for the protection of state property. Others, however, have questioned the methods employed by the alleged supporters and called for a thorough investigation to ascertain the facts surrounding the incidents.
Critics argue that any actions perceived as unlawful, even if well-intentioned, could undermine the rule of law and set a dangerous precedent. They emphasize the need for due process and caution against justifying acts that may violate the rights of individuals or institutions.
In response to these concerns, Gbande reiterated the NDC’s commitment to accountability and transparency. He assured the public that the party does not condone violence or illegal activities and is focused on ensuring that its members and supporters act in accordance with the law.
The allegations of vandalism and attacks on state institutions come at a time of heightened political tension in Ghana, as the nation grapples with issues of governance, corruption, and economic challenges. The role of political parties in fostering stability and promoting responsible citizenship has come under increased scrutiny, with calls for all stakeholders to prioritize the national interest over partisan agendas.
As the situation unfolds, Gbande’s remarks have added a new dimension to the ongoing debate about the role of political parties in safeguarding public resources. His defense of the accused individuals raises important questions about the balance between activism and accountability, as well as the responsibilities of political leaders in guiding their supporters toward constructive and lawful actions.
The NDC’s collaboration with law enforcement and other stakeholders will be closely monitored as Ghanaians await a resolution to the issue. In the meantime, the party’s commitment to addressing the concerns of the youth and promoting accountability in public office remains a key talking point in national discourse.
Gbande’s appeal for understanding and appreciation of the actions taken by the accused individuals reflects a broader conversation about the challenges facing Ghana’s democracy. As the nation seeks to strengthen its institutions and uphold the rule of law, the actions and rhetoric of political leaders will play a crucial role in shaping public perception and fostering trust in the political process.
The coming weeks will likely see further developments as investigations into the alleged incidents continue. For now, Gbande’s comments serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in navigating the intersection of political activism, governance, and the protection of public resources in a rapidly evolving political landscape.
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