Source:tolonradio.com
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Tolon Constituency has issued a stern call for justice following alleged acts of violence during the December 7, 2024, general elections. Addressing the media at an emergency press conference held on December 10, 2024, party representatives condemned what they described as orchestrated attacks by their political opponents, the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The NPP highlighted incidents at the UDS Nyankpala Polling Station, where the party claims the NDC parliamentary candidate, Osman Tahidu Damba, led thugs to attack NPP Regional Organiser Alhaji Rashid COP, resulting in damage to his vehicle. They further alleged that NDC-affiliated individuals set up roadblocks in Nyankpala township, using sporadic gunfire to intimidate voters and prevent them from casting their ballots.
“These actions resulted in one death and several injuries. Legitimately registered voters were denied their right to vote as buses carrying NPP supporters were turned back by NDC thugs, all under the direction of their parliamentary candidate,” stated the NPP spokesperson.
History of Violence Alleged
The NPP also recounted previous incidents involving the NDC in the constituency, including clashes during voter registration exercises in 2020 and 2024. They accused NDC operatives of employing firearms and engaging in physical attacks, citing video evidence allegedly implicating Osman Tahidu Damba in violent conduct.
The press conference also detailed attacks on the private properties of Tolon MP Alhaji Habib Iddrisu, claiming that a warehouse containing motorbikes and sewing machines was looted, while his residence in Tamale was vandalized.
“The violence in Nyankpala and subsequent attacks on Hon. Habib’s properties were part of a deliberate effort to undermine the will of the people and tarnish the reputation of the MP,” the spokesperson emphasized.
MP Calls for Calm and Justice
Hon. Habib Iddrisu, the NPP Member of Parliament for Tolon, was described as “deeply worried” about the violent incidents. In a statement, he condemned the acts, expressed condolences to the bereaved family, and promised to seek justice.
“The MP was nowhere near the scenes of violence, yet his name has been dragged into the controversy,” the NPP noted, calling accusations against him baseless.
Call for Police Action
The NPP urged the Ghana Police Service to conduct thorough investigations into the incidents, insisting that perpetrators must face the law.
“This country is governed by laws, and impunity cannot be tolerated. Every citizen’s life matters, and the violence we witnessed must not go unpunished,” they added.
A Victory Despite Challenges
Despite the alleged violence, the NPP celebrated its electoral victory in the Tolon Constituency, where Alhaji Habib Iddrisu retained his seat with 30,893 votes against 24,772 for the NDC’s Osman Tahidu Damba.
“This overwhelming endorsement by the people of Tolon reaffirms the constituency as a stronghold of the NPP,” the party declared, thanking residents for choosing “development over propaganda.”
The press conference ended with a renewed call for peace and a pledge to continue pursuing development initiatives for the benefit of the constituency.
Tolon will continue to rise, and the NPP remains committed to the welfare of its people,” the statement concluded.