Dr. John Kpikpi Condemns Post-Election Violence and Calls for Political Unity
Dr. John Kpikpi, leader of the Progressive Alliance for Ghana, condemned post-election violence resulting from the 2024 general elections and called for political leaders to ensure peace and restraint among their supporters. His remarks highlight the significant unrest involving the NDC and NPP, with several violent incidents underscoring the threat to Ghana’s democratic reputation. Dr. Kpikpi urged leaders to prioritize unity and emphasized the need for non-violent resolutions to political grievances.
Dr. John Kpikpi, the leader of the Progressive Alliance for Ghana, has expressed strong condemnation of the recent surge in violence following the 2024 general elections in Ghana. In a statement released on December 16, 2024, he called for peace and urged all political leaders to take decisive measures to control their supporters. The escalating unrest has reportedly involved clashes between supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), resulting in vandalism of state properties and confrontations with security forces.
The violence has led to significant incidents, including the arson of Electoral Commission offices in the Eastern Region, injuries to security personnel trying to maintain order, and disturbances in crucial constituencies like Dome-Kwabenya and Tema Central. Furthermore, there have been alarming reports of NPP supporters attacking NDC members. Dr. Kpikpi described these violent events as “deeply regrettable” and “unacceptable,” expressing concern for Ghana’s revered stature as a democratic nation in Africa.
He has called upon political leaders such as President-elect John Mahama and the executives of both the NDC and NPP to prioritize national unity over party loyalty, emphasizing that any political disputes should be resolved through peaceful and lawful means. “While political grievances may arise, they must be addressed through legal and peaceful means rather than violence. Ghana’s democracy has long been a beacon of hope across Africa, and these actions threaten to tarnish our global reputation,” Dr. Kpikpi stated, underlining the imperative for immediate action.
In addition to addressing political leaders, he urged the Ghana Police Service and the military to take robust and effective measures to protect lives, maintain order, and uphold democratic processes. He also encouraged civil society organizations and religious leaders to play an active role in promoting calm and accountability throughout the political landscape, reinforcing the need for harmony.
The recent enactment of post-election violence in Ghana stems from the aftermath of the 2024 general elections, in which political tensions heightened between supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Reports indicate widespread unrest, characterized by vandalism and confrontations with security personnel, raising concerns about Ghana’s democratic integrity. Dr. John Kpikpi’s statement seeks to address these escalating hostilities and reinforce the value of non-violent resolutions, advocating for collaboration among political factions to restore peace within the country.
In summary, Dr. John Kpikpi’s condemnation of the recent violence following the 2024 general elections emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining peace and unity in Ghana. His call to political leaders to act prudently and urge their supporters to refrain from violent acts is crucial for protecting the nation’s democracy. It is essential for all stakeholders to come together to resolve political grievances through dialogue rather than hostility, ensuring that Ghana’s reputation as a stabilizing force in African democracy is preserved.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
