By King Amoah
A recent incident at the Akwatia by-election has once again brought to the fore the urgent need for responsible political conduct prompting a powerful voice from the Ashanti region to speak out.
Rev. David Armstrong, founder and leader of Mo Mary Fellowship in Kumasi has expressed regret over how some politicians seem to be deliberately drag the nation into unnecessary tension and division.
His disappointment stems from a poignant observation: As if those politicians climbed to that heights through magical means but not the very Ghanaians they see them as rags.
This statement cuts deep highlighting a concerning disconnect where those entrusted with leadership appear to forget the very people who elevated them to power.
The catalyst for Rev. Armstrong’s strong statement was the reported threat made by the NDC Vice Chairman Azoka Sofo against Hon. Alexander Afenyo Markin Member of Parliament for Efutu Constituency and other NPP faithful during the Akwatia by-election.
Calling the incident as unfortunate, the clergyman did not mince words in his demand for justice and accountability.
He said at the time Ghanaians need peace and unity to build their economy where come such violence.
Rev. Armstrong unequivocally stated that to calm tensions IGP should direct for the arrest of the Ndc chairman Sofo Azoka who is not above the law.
This is not merely about punishment; it is about setting a crucial precedent.
In a democratic nation like Ghana governed by the rule of law, no individual regardless of their political standing or affiliation should believe that they are not above the reach of justice.
Bringing Azoka to book, the man of God believes would serve as a deterrent to others who might consider similar acts of intimidation and violence
The clergyman’s concerns run deeper than a single incident. He highlighted a disturbing trend of spanning nearly 30 years since Ghana ushered into democracy where many politicians have been allegedly used politics to claim innocent peoples life during election periods.
Rev. Armstrong directly challenged the fundamental principles of democracy with poignant questions:
Did the democracy gives the politicians the licence to create violence or kill and go unpunished ?.
What does the 1992 constitution says about elections – violence or peace?” (Implying the constitution champions peace).
What would you benefit if you use politics to kill your brother and and assume political power?
According to Rev. Armstrong politicians fundamentally believe strongly that politics is a game of peace and discipline.
Stressing that the tragic shift,, occurs because of greed and corruption hence they use every force means to struggle for positions that they don’t deserve them.
Rev. Armstrong’s message is a clarion call to all political parties to allow Ghanaians to enjoy their peace.
Our nation has come too far to be derailed by political violence and intimidation. The strength of our democracy lies not in the might of political factions, but in the collective will of the people and the unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and the rule of law
