Election materials were destroyed and journalists beaten when thugs of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) disrupted the council of state election in Kumasi on Tuesday, February 11.
The heavily-built NDC men stormed the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) premises where the election for the regional representative of the council was being held to disrupt the process.
Among the journalists who were assaulted was Angel Fm reporter, Akwasi Oppong.
Policemen on duty at the place were overpowered. Police later issued a statement that they were on a manhunt for the thugs
Counting process
At the time of the attack, sorting of votes were ongoing, and reports indicate that Nana Nkansah Boadu, the chief of Agric Nsima appeared to be heading to victory.
Kumasi MPs condemn act
Meanwhile, the Kumasi Bloc of Parliament has strongly condemned the “disgraceful and undemocratic actions”.
In a statement, the group said at the time of the shameful act, “one of the contestants had secured 49 out of 84 votes, with counting still underway.”
“Upon realizing that one contestant had won, the thugs forcefully halted the process, plunging the election into chaos. This brazen attack on our democratic process is not just an assault on the integrity of the elections but a direct challenge to the peace and stability of our region. Such lawless behavior has no place in our democracy and must be met with the full force of the law.”
Demands
The Kumasi Bloc of Parliament, demand the following:
1. Swift action from law enforcement to arrest and prosecute all individuals involved in this criminal act.
2. Immediate resumption and completion of the electoral process to ensure that the will of the people is respected.
3. A firm stance from the government and all relevant authorities to prevent such incidents from recurring in future elections.
