By King Amoah
In the delicate aftermath of elections, where political tensions can bubble to the surface, it is crucial for a nation’s stability that governmental properties remain safeguarded.
Elder Enoch Ofori Jnr, the Head Pastor of the Association of Seventh Day Pentecostal Assemblies located at Feyiase in the Atwima Bosomtwi District of the Ashanti region, has voiced urgent concerns regarding the recent upsurge in violence and attempts by political supporters to unlawfully seize government properties.
His insights shed light on the imperative for legislative action to protect state assets during these volatile periods.
The concerns raised by Elder Ofori Jnr are not unfounded. Instances of chaos, such as the tragic confrontation in Akomadan Afrancho in the Ashanti region, which resulted in loss of life among supporters of both the NPP and NDC, highlight the urgent need for preventive measures. The incident, which stemmed from a conflict over government-owned fertilizer bags, serves as a stark reminder of how political rivalry can devolve into violence, jeopardizing not only state resources but also innocent lives.
Elder Ofori Jnr sees a direct link between these clashes and a lack of legal frameworks regulating the behavior of political supporters during transition phases. He argues that without clear laws, party supporters feel emboldened to take the law into their own hands, leading to increased incidents of violence and unrest. This behavior not only endangers government properties but also emboldens criminal elements within society to engage in looting and further fuel chaos.
“It is imperative that we cultivate a landscape of peace,” says Elder Ofori Jnr. “This can only be achieved if party supporters are bound by laws that prevent them from resorting to violence when one political party wins an election.”
The notion of peaceful transitions is vital in any democratic society. Elder Ofori Jnr’s observations regarding the seemingly peaceful nature of the elections stand in stark contrast to the violent behaviors exhibited afterward.
He questions the rationale behind such actions when the political process has unfolded smoothly, free of significant unrest.
Recognizing the sensitive nature of this transitional period, Elder Ofori Jnr urges both political leaders—specifically, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and former President John Dramani Mahama, to actively counsel their supporters against such detrimental behaviors. Their guidance could foster a climate of cooperation and understanding, preserving the integrity of state properties and the safety of citizens.
The crux of Elder Ofori Jnr’s appeal lies in the call for the establishment of transitional laws aimed at shielding government assets during sensitive electoral transitions. Such legislation would not only deter unlawful attempts to claim government properties but also promote a more civil political discourse among party supporters, underlining a collective responsibility toward national stability.
In conclusion, the transition period following elections is a critical time for any nation. Elder Enoch Ofori Jnr’s heartfelt plea for protective measures underscores the need for not just political leaders but all citizens to commit to upholding peace and order. As Ghana navigates its democratic journey, the implementation of transitional laws could play a pivotal role in ensuring that the journey is marked by stability, cooperation, and a collective respect for government properties, thereby safeguarding the nation’s future.
