Akwatia: Ahead of the September 2, Parliamentary by-election in Akwatia, the National Peace Council has called for calm.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Council has engaged with the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the Ghana Police Service, and the Electoral Commission (EC) regarding recent by-elections. The Council assures the public that the Akwatia by-election is anticipated to be peaceful.
A statement issued by the National Peace Council, and copied to the Ghana News Agency, emphasized the commitment of political party leaders, the Ghana Police Service, and the Electoral Commission to maintaining peace before, during, and after the election. The Council encouraged all stakeholders, especially the NDC and NPP, to ensure the peace and security of Akwatia and the nation are not compromised.
The National Peace Council urged parties to avoid using 'machomen' and politically affiliated vigilantes, warning of the serious consequences of imprisonment under the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act 2019 (Act 2019). The NPC is intensifying strategic engagements and public sensitization in Akwatia until September 1, 2025, to ensure all involved in the by-election adhere to the rules governing peaceful elections.
Additionally, the National Peace Council commended the prosecution of eight suspects involved in disturbances during the Ablekuma North re-run, highlighting the state's commitment to law and order in the electoral process. The Council urged all parties to cooperate with security and the EC for a peaceful exercise in Akwatia.
The Council emphasized the importance of democratic elections as a means of leader selection and called on citizens, especially those in the Akwatia Constituency, to protect the nation's democracy and learn from past elections to improve future ones.
The statement also addressed concerns about recent clashes in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District in the Savannah Region and Sene Dindee in the Upper West Region, which resulted in the loss of lives. The Council condemned the violence and urged calm, appealing to local leaders and youth associations for restraint.
The National Peace Council assured the public that it is working with the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to find a lasting solution to the conflicts in the Savannah Region. The Council commended the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Christian Yohuno, for his swift actions and personal intervention, which have helped restore calm in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba area.