A security consultant, Paul Boateng, has strongly condemned threats of electoral violence ahead of the Akwatia by-election in the Eastern Region.
Speaking on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey on Wednesday, July 23, Mr. Boateng described the development as disturbing and a threat to Ghana’s democratic process.
He expressed concern that such violent rhetoric discourages participation by smaller political parties, who may fear for their safety and the integrity of the electoral process.
“Well, I think it’s a worrying issue because democracy is not about violence or getting power by hook or crook. When you do that—look at the two major political parties in Ghana—you deter others, especially the minor political parties, from getting involved in the democratic process,” he said.
“When you listen to radio and other media outlets, you hear key political figures making such claims. I don’t think it’s very good for this country. We don’t have to get to this point.”
Mr. Boateng’s remarks follow rising tensions between supporters of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), with both parties trading accusations over violence in the recent Ablekuma North rerun.
The NPP claims that violence at the Ablekuma North polls was orchestrated by the NDC and contributed to their victory. In response, some NPP supporters have threatened to retaliate during the Akwatia by-election.
In the wake of these tensions, security agencies have assured the public of robust measures to ensure peace and safety during the upcoming election.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
