The Minority Caucus in Parliament has expressed serious concerns over what it describes as escalating acts of violence, thuggery, and institutional takeovers allegedly perpetrated by individuals linked to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Addressing a press conference in Parliament, the Deputy Minority Leader, Patricia Appiagyei, stated that recent events following the 2024 elections represent a “dangerous assault” on Ghana’s democratic values.
She called for urgent intervention from President John Dramani Mahama and the nation’s security agencies to address the situation.
The Minority Caucus highlighted a series of incidents they described as coordinated disruptions in key national institutions.
Specific examples included alleged takeovers at the Tema Port, the Koforidua offices of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), and National Service Scheme (NSS), as well as the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR).
At the Tema Port, NDC loyalists reportedly demanded the removal of non-NDC employees. In Koforidua, the offices of NHIS, NADMO, and NSS were locked up by individuals alleged to be affiliated with the NDC.
Similarly, the Caucus claimed that thugs stormed TOR, evicted workers, and locked the premises.
The Deputy Minority Leader further alleged that these acts were carried out under the banner of “Resetting Ghana to enable us to get the Ghana we want,” which she described as an alarming justification for illegal activities.
Unconstitutional Precedent
Ms. Appiagyei also criticized President Mahama’s establishment of the Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) Committee prior to his inauguration, arguing that its mandate was unconstitutional and beyond the powers of a President-elect under the Presidential Transition Act, 2012.
She claimed the committee’s rhetoric had emboldened party loyalists to act outside the law, undermining the rule of law and due process.
Targeting of Public Officials
The Minority Caucus expressed alarm over the targeting of civil servants, public officers, and judicial personnel.
Reports of forced evictions from homes and offices, as well as threats and acts of vandalism, were cited as evidence of an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.
“Public servants must not live in fear simply for doing their jobs. Ghana’s democracy cannot thrive if its institutions and personnel are under siege,” Ms. Appiagyei emphasized.
The Minority Caucus called on President Mahama to condemn the acts of violence and intimidation, and to direct law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute offenders impartially.
They also urged the President to reaffirm his commitment to democratic governance and the rule of law.
“To our security agencies, we urge you to uphold the Constitution and enforce the law without fear or favor. Ghanaians are counting on you to restore order,” Ms. Appiagyei stated.
The Deputy Minority Leader also appealed to Ghanaians to reject violence and defend democracy.
“Ghana is bigger than any political party or individual. We are a nation of laws, and our institutions must serve all citizens, regardless of political affiliation,” she said.
In conclusion, the Minority Caucus stressed that safeguarding democracy requires collective effort and vigilance, urging all stakeholders to work toward a peaceful and democratic Ghana.
