Adentan, Ghana — The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for Adentan, Akosua Asaa Manu, has publicly condemned what she has described as a brutal attack on her personal driver, allegedly by affiliates of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The reported incident occurred on Monday, raising tensions in a community on the cusp of national elections scheduled for December 7.
According to Manu, during a routine stop to eat following constituency-related work, her driver was assaulted by two individuals, one donned in NDC attire. The attack, which took place in broad daylight, left the driver with severe head injuries necessitating immediate medical care.
“The attack on my driver is not only a personal attack but an affront to the peaceful democratic process we strive to uphold in Ghana,” Manu stated during a press briefing. She detailed that the assault involved the use of a heavy stick, striking her driver’s head, and leading to substantial wounds that required stitches.
Manu expressed her disgust at the assailants’ disregard for human life, emphasizing the severity of the injuries sustained by her driver. The incident, according to her, could have been fatal had it not been for the swift intervention of eyewitnesses who provided immediate assistance.
Following the assault, Manu confirmed that a formal complaint has been filed with local police and that a comprehensive medical report has been documented to aid the ongoing investigation. “We rely on the police to handle this matter with the seriousness it warrants,” she added.
This violent episode stirs an already volatile political atmosphere as Ghana braces for its upcoming elections. The implications of such actions pose significant concerns about electoral violence and the safety of political figures and their affiliates.
Political analyst Kwame Opoku commented on the incident, highlighting its potential to incite further unrest if not adequately addressed. “Such incidents can escalate quickly and undermine the electoral process,” Opoku noted. “It’s crucial for all parties to call for calm and condemn any form of violence to ensure a free and fair election.”
In the wake of the incident, Manu has appealed for peace and civility among all political camps. “What we need is unity and respect for each other’s rights and safety, not violence,” she said, urging supporters from all sides to focus on a peaceful electoral process.
The community and political observers await the outcome of the police investigation, hoping for justice and a deterrent against future electoral violence. Meanwhile, local leaders and civic organizations have ramped up their calls for peaceful campaigning and conduct as the nation heads to a critical electoral juncture.
The incident has garnered national attention, reflecting the broader issues of political intolerance and the urgent need for effective mechanisms to protect citizens and maintain peace during highly charged political periods. As Ghana continues to develop its democratic landscape, the resolution of this case may serve as a benchmark for handling election-related disputes and violence.