The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) strongly condemns the recent violent clash between the supporters of the ruling party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and the supporters of the largest opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The routine weekend political campaign walk of the parties that turned violent was unfortunate and highly condemnable.

The violence that occurred in Mamobi in the Ayawaso North Constituency in the Greater Accra region undermines democracy and peaceful coexistence and threatens the peace and stability of the country as it heads towards the Presidential and Parliamentary elections in December 2024. FOSDA is concerned that the continual occurrence of these pockets of violence could result in deepening divisions, animosity, and increased instability.

We are also concerned about the illegal use of arms in such public political events and we call on law enforcement agencies to ensure perpetrators are dealt with according to the law for such illegal behaviours and acts of violence.

FOSDA calls on political party leaders at all levels to promote tolerance and dialogue among their rank and file to minimize such violent occurrences. We believe these are worrying indicators of violent elections and all political parties, especially the NDC and NPP must show leadership and ensure peace at all their events and among their supporters. We also call on citizens to eschew violence and conduct themselves peacefully before, during and after the elections.