The National Youth Organizer of the NDC and Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, known as Pablo has urged the youth of the party to desist from any acts of violence during the September 2 by-election in the Akwatia constituency.
The Akwatia by-election follows the sudden passing of the area’s Member of Parliament, Ernest Yaw Kumi.
The election will be contested by Solomon Kwame Asumadu of the NPP, Bernard Bediako Baidoo Esq. of the NDC, and Owusu Patrick of the Liberal People’s Party (LPG).
Ahead of the by-election, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has arrested ten suspects and retrieved nine weapons in a series of security operations, raising concerns about safety.
Speaking to the media as the youth wing of the party begins its intensive campaign, Pablo said the NDC is a law-abiding political party and will not indulge in any acts that will destabilize peace.
He stated, “We are the midwives of Ghana’s democracy. We hold it very dear. So whatever we have to do to make sure that we safeguard that democracy, we will do. We have told our supporters to refrain from doing anything that will lead to violence in this election.”
He however cautioned, “I want to assure our brothers on the other side that we will not countenance any violence from anybody. We have told our security agencies to be alert and to be on the lookout and then to deal with anybody who tries to foment trouble anywhere. The NDC will not foment trouble but that doesn’t make us meek and that doesn’t make us weak. We will stand our ground when we have to and we’ll make sure that the right things are done at every polling station.”
Pablo expressed optimism that the NDC will win the seat.
Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Addotey Awatey, told journalists that security personnel are on top of the situation and will create a conducive environment for all electorates to vote peacefully.
Meanwhile, Erasmus Ali Konney, a contender in the NDC primaries, expressed confidence that with unity and hard work, the party can reclaim the Akwatia seat.
With just days to the polls, both the NDC and NPP have intensified their campaigns, while security arrangements have been tightened. Barricades have already been mounted around the collation center to ensure order and safety.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
