Bawumia calls on Mahama to control supporters amid post-election disturbances

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has called on President-elect John Dramani Mahama to take immediate steps to address what he describes as widespread lawlessness and violence perpetrated by supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following their electoral victory.

In a statement issued on December 10, 2024, Dr. Bawumia expressed concern over incidents of violence, looting, and intimidation allegedly carried out by some NDC members.

“I have noted with deep concern the embarrassing state of lawlessness and thuggery being unleashed on innocent Ghanaians and state institutions by members of the National Democratic Congress,” he said.

Dr. Bawumia urged Mahama to demonstrate leadership and statesmanship by calling his supporters to order. “I would like to remind President Mahama that he has won an election; he has not staged a coup d’état. He has a responsibility to contribute to protecting life and property,” he emphasised.

The former Vice President cited incidents where NDC supporters allegedly stormed collation centres with weapons, forcing the declaration of parliamentary candidates as winners.

He also noted reports of attacks on public offices, private properties, and individuals perceived to be aligned with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), some of whom have reportedly received death threats.

“It is regrettable that these reprehensible acts are being perpetrated following an electoral process that has been widely touted as credible,” Bawumia said.

He warned that continued silence and inaction from Mahama could lead people to take steps to defend themselves, a situation he described as undesirable.

Dr. Bawumia appealed for national unity and peace, urging Mahama and the NDC to prioritise the national interest.

“We must at all times place the national interest over and above any individual interest. The last thing anybody wants is to mar the beauty of the successful elections that have just been concluded,” he stated.