Asenso-Boakye Condemns Post-Election Violence, Calls for Decisive National Action
MP for Bantama demands immediate leadership and accountability to safeguard Ghana’s democracy
- Hon. Asenso-Boakye condemns post-election violence
- Calls for urgent and decisive action from the government to ensure accountability for perpetrators
- Proposes legislative reforms and collaboration among key stakeholders to prevent further violence
Accra, January 22, 2025 — Hon. Francis Asenso-Boakye, Member of Parliament for Bantama, has called for urgent and decisive action to address the recent surge of post-election violence that has plagued various parts of Ghana following the December 7, 2024 general election.
In a statement delivered in Parliament today, January 22, 2025, Hon. Asenso-Boakye condemned acts of hooliganism, lawlessness, and unauthorized takeovers of public offices, warning of their serious implications for the country’s democracy and socio-economic development.
“Ghana has, over the past three decades, distinguished itself as a beacon of democracy in Africa,” the MP began, referencing the peaceful elections conducted under the Fourth Republic. However, he expressed concern that the post-election violence threatens this legacy. “The acts of arson, vandalism, and physical assaults we have witnessed in recent weeks pose a grave threat to the peace and stability of our nation,” he added.
Specific Incidents Highlighted
Hon. Asenso-Boakye cited several instances of such politically motivated disturbances.
“Mr. Speaker, in the Ayensuano Constituency, dissatisfied supporters of the ruling party allegedly set fire to the office of the Electoral Commission following the declaration of the election outcome,” he noted.
He further highlighted that, “some public institutions, such as the Ghana National Gas Company, Ghana Ports and Harbour Authority, National Petroleum Authority, and the Bui Power Authority, were unlawfully invaded, with some public servants forcibly removed from their offices.”
“In Bantama, my own constituency,” he stated, “operatives of the governing party reportedly stormed public institutions, including the National Health Insurance Authority, ejecting staff and locking their premises.” He added that a similar attack targeted the Metro Mass Transit yard, where individuals attempted to take control of assets and internally generated funds.
Speaking on the AngloGold Ashanti Mines incident in Obuasi, he said, “The intrusion by armed individuals resulted in the destruction of private property and the tragic loss of life during exchanges with security personnel.”
“These actions are most unfortunate and must not be encouraged, regardless of the perpetrators’ background,” he emphasized.
Call for Leadership and Accountability
Hon. Asenso-Boakye criticized the apparent lack of decisive action against the perpetrators, stating that it undermines public trust in institutions and the rule of law. “There appears to be a lack of decisive and immediate action, which creates the impression of tolerance for lawlessness,” he lamented.
He urged the government to move beyond mere rhetoric and ensure that all culprits, irrespective of political affiliation, face the full force of the law. “Leadership demands not only rhetoric but also decisive action,” he stated.
Legislative and Collaborative Solutions
To address the menace, Hon. Asenso-Boakye proposed a review of Ghana’s legislative framework to impose stricter penalties on individuals and entities involved in unlawful activities, including their beneficiaries. “Such measures will reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law and protect the integrity of our democratic processes,” he noted.
He also called for collaboration among key stakeholders, including security agencies, civil society organizations, traditional authorities, and political leaders. “We owe it to the Ghanaian people to uphold the values of peace, unity, and good governance,” he remarked.
Appeal to the Youth
In a heartfelt appeal to the nation’s youth, Hon. Asenso-Boakye urged them not to allow themselves to be used as tools for political violence. “You deserve so much more than being a tool for destruction. Think of the dreams you hold, the goals you’ve set, and the brighter future that lies ahead of you,” he said.
Upholding Ghana’s Democratic Legacy
Hon. Asenso-Boakye concluded his statement with a call to action: “Ghana’s democratic credentials are hard-earned, and we must not allow the actions of a few to tarnish our reputation as a model of democracy in Africa. Let us act now, decisively, to restore order and ensure that Ghana remains a shining example of good governance on the continent.”
