In a deeply disturbing incident, the NDC Disability Desk has condemned a violent attack on a deaf supporter in Asawinso A, a community in the Bibiani municipal area of the Western North Region. The victim, Samson Adjei, popularly known as Kofi Kaah, was assaulted by individuals believed to be affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) during a campaign float. This act of violence has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice.
The brutal incident, captured on national television by XYZ TV, shows Adjei, a known supporter of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), being harassed and beaten by the mob. According to eyewitnesses, the attack began when NPP campaigners harassed Adjei, plucking plantains from the bunch he was carrying on his motorbike. When Adjei protested, he was pushed to the ground and beaten, including blows with the blunt end of his own cutlass. Being deaf, Adjei was unable to hear his attackers or communicate with them during the assault.
The NDC Disability Desk has condemned the attack as a violation of the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. “Such behavior undermines the very foundation of our democratic principles where every citizen should feel free to express their political beliefs without fear of intimidation or violence,” the statement said.
Adjei, who collapsed during the assault, was taken to the hospital where he is currently recovering from serious injuries, including swelling on his face and body, as well as impaired vision.
The attackers reportedly boasted of their immunity from consequences, a claim that has heightened concerns about the growing culture of political violence in the country. The NDC Disability Desk has called on the Ghana Police Service to prioritize the case and hold the perpetrators accountable, stressing that justice must be served to protect the rights of all citizens, particularly those who are vulnerable.
The NDC Disability Desk also urged the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and the Peace Council to follow the case closely to ensure justice is delivered. They called on all Ghanaians, irrespective of political affiliation, to join in condemning the violence and fostering a culture of peace and respect.
As Ghana approaches another election cycle, the incident serves as a reminder of the need to address political intolerance and protect the rights of all citizens, particularly persons with disabilities, to engage freely in the democratic process without fear of violence.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Emmanuel Mensah