In the aftermath of the recent general elections, allegations of a lack of transparency and accountability during the collation process have been cited as key trigger of violence at some collation centers.
A Security analyst and for military officer, Dr. Festus Aboagye speaking on Bryt Adekye Mu Nsem with Kwamina Sam Biney, on the unfolding events, attributed the unrest to the desperation for power exhibited by the outgoing New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.
“The ruling government’s desperation for power has played a major role in the violence. Supporters of the outgoing NPP have been implicated in acts of looting across various government offices” he stated.
According to him, some officials and supporters of the ruling NPP are allegedly pressuring their superiors for employment or benefits before the transfer of power is finalized.
These actions, he indicated, have provoked anger among supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), leading to clashes aimed at preventing the looting of public properties.
He further accused the NPP of orchestrating these activities in anticipation of the change in government, with President-elect John Dramani Mahama of the NDC set to take over.
Major (rtd) Festus Aboagye also raised concerns about the role of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), suggesting that leadership of the police force altered its operational focus following the shift in power from the NPP to the NDC.
“The IGP’s plans seemed to change as soon as it became clear that the NDC had won the election,” he remarked.
He urged the IGP to prioritize the deployment of officers to vulnerable areas to safeguard state assets and prevent further unrest.
However, he did not hold back in his criticism of the outgoing government, accusing it of using its influence to control key public institutions, including the police and military.
“The current NPP government has abused its power by using these institutions to serve its interests,” he said.
As the country transitions to a new leadership, he advised the incoming president, John Dramani Mahama, to uphold the integrity of public institutions and refrain from exerting undue influence over them.
“The president-elect must allow these institutions to operate independently, free from political interference, to restore public trust and ensure effective governance,” he concluded.
The situation has drawn widespread attention, with calls for immediate measures to address the violence and prevent further escalation. Security experts and political analysts have urged all parties to remain calm and work toward a peaceful transition of power.
Observers argue that a transparent investigation into the election process and the reported incidents of looting could help rebuild confidence in the country’s democratic governance
Meanwhile, the police has assured the public of their commitment to maintaining law and order, even as questions linger about their role during the transition period.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/edzo Isaac Acheampong
