Ningo-Prampram MP Samuel Nartey George Criticizes NPP’s Bawumia Over Comments on Ablekuma North Election Violence
Samuel Nartey George, the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram and Minister for Communications, has strongly criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, over his recent remarks on the violent disruptions during the Ablekuma North parliamentary election rerun.
In a pointed social media post on Friday, Sam George did not hold back in condemning Dr. Bawumia’s comments, urging him to remain silent on the issue. He tweeted, “Someone should tell Bawumia to shut up. What did he say about Ayawaso West Wuogon in 2019?” This sharp retort refers to the violence that occurred during the 2019 Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election, a politically charged incident that drew national and international condemnation.
Context: The Ablekuma North Election Violence
The comments from Sam George followed an earlier statement by Dr. Bawumia, who condemned the violence that marred the voting process at the St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church polling station in Odorkor. During the rerun election, unidentified individuals violently disrupted voting, resulting in assaults on prominent political figures such as former Fisheries Minister Mavis Hawa Koomson, along with injuries to several NPP members and a journalist covering the event.
Dr. Bawumia, who is leading the NPP into the December 2024 presidential elections, emphasized the risks such violence poses to Ghana’s democratic stability. He warned that political parties raising their own armed groups would be disastrous for the country’s democracy.
“This will be a recipe for disaster if each political party raises its own army,” Dr. Bawumia said.
He further called on President John Mahama to take decisive action to bring those responsible to justice:
“I call on the President to take action to bring the perpetrators to book.”
“We will not forget what has happened. This is not the democracy we want to see.”
Sam George Questions Bawumia’s Moral Standing
However, Samuel Nartey George countered these remarks by questioning Dr. Bawumia’s moral authority to comment on electoral violence, citing his silence during the violent Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election. During that 2019 incident, security forces reportedly assaulted opposition supporters, which triggered widespread condemnation from civil society groups, human rights organizations, and international observers.
The MP for Ningo-Prampram suggested that Dr. Bawumia’s current stance is hypocritical and politically motivated. By invoking the Ayawaso West Wuogon violence, George highlighted what he described as a double standard in Bawumia’s approach to electoral disturbances.
Political Tensions Escalate Amid Electoral Violence
The exchange between Sam George and Dr. Bawumia is reflective of the heightened political tensions following the chaos in Ablekuma North. The violent disruptions have drawn sharp criticism from various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, election observers, and members of the general public who are concerned about the integrity of Ghana’s electoral process.
Calls for accountability have been loud and clear. Many are urging the Electoral Commission of Ghana and the Ghana Police Service to launch thorough investigations into the incident and to put measures in place to prevent similar occurrences in the upcoming general elections.
The Stakes Ahead: December 2024 Elections
With the December 2024 general elections fast approaching, political accountability and security professionalism have become critical issues for Ghana’s democratic future. Analysts warn that without decisive action and transparent investigations, the public’s confidence in the electoral process may be severely undermined.
The violent clashes and the ensuing political back-and-forth underscore the urgent need for political actors to put the nation’s democratic interests above partisan rivalry. Ensuring peaceful and credible elections will require cooperation between political parties, security agencies, and the electoral management body.
Calls for Peace and Justice
The Ablekuma North election violence has become a litmus test for Ghana’s democracy. As political leaders continue to debate responsibility and accountability, the public and civil society remain focused on ensuring justice for victims and safeguarding the democratic process.
Samuel Nartey George’s sharp criticism of Dr. Bawumia’s comments adds fuel to the fiery political debate but also serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding electoral violence and political rhetoric in Ghana. Moving forward, it is essential that all parties work together to promote peaceful elections, uphold the rule of law, and maintain Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy in West Africa.
