Supporters of Mahama Tia Kabiru and Hajia Lariba Zuweira Abudu clashed on September 7, 2024, at Eagle FM in Walewale, escalating tensions among constituency executives who were perceived to show favoritism towards specific candidates. The situation prompted police intervention to prevent further violence as over 800 delegates prepared to vote on September 9, 2024, following a Tamale High Court ruling that annulled the January primary [886e2380].
This incident is part of a broader pattern of political unrest in Ghana, where recent clashes have been reported during electoral processes. For instance, Kwesi Pratt, a political commentator, condemned violent clashes during the Electoral Commission's vote transfer exercise, which also saw a stabbing incident involving the son of Minister for Fisheries, Mavis Hawa Koomson [911501f6].
The German Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Daniel Krull, has called for security services to prioritize peace during the upcoming elections, emphasizing the need for stability in light of the recent violence [e662de93]. Similarly, Hawa Koomson has urged for peace in Kasoa, particularly during the election period, following a violent incident involving her son [8597f336].
In Tano North, the Municipal Chief Executive, Mr. Ernest Kwarteng, reported a stable security situation but urged citizens to focus on development rather than partisan politics as the elections approach [47a07e5e]. The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has also warned against the spread of disinformation ahead of the December 7 general elections, highlighting the importance of accurate information in maintaining peace [9565d8fd].
As the political landscape in Ghana becomes increasingly volatile, the recent clashes in Walewale serve as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead in ensuring a peaceful electoral process. The Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has cautioned against the military's involvement in elections, stressing that police should handle electoral security unless overwhelmed [47a07e5e].
With the upcoming primary rerun in Walewale, the focus remains on maintaining peace and order as political tensions continue to rise across the country.