- Catholic Standard Demands Action, Justice
The Catholic Standard reiterates its call for accountability following chaotic scenes during the parliamentary rerun in Ablekuma North on Friday, July 11, 2025. The rerun, mandated to resolve disputes stemming from the December 7, 2024 general election, saw pockets of violence that tested Ghana’s democratic processes.
Background to the Rerun
The initial December election was disrupted when supporters destroyed the pink sheets during collation, prompting the EC to suspend results and order reruns at the affected 19 polling centres on July 11.
The NPP’s legal challenge to halt the rerun was dismissed on July 9.
Notable Incidents & Victim Accounts
1. Former MP Mavis Hawa Koomson
Attacked by a coordinated group at the St. Peter’s Methodist Church polling station, Koomson described a frantic scene:
“As soon as the thugs entered, I identified two NDC guys from Kasoa… they pounced on me.”
She defended her use of pepper spray as self‑defence against suspected knife-wielding assailants:
“When I saw the thugs walking toward me holding knives, I acted in self‑defence… I didn’t go there to cause trouble.”
Koomson later affirmed her commitment to public service:
“It won’t deter me… If violence like this goes unchecked, how will women be encouraged to enter politics?”
2. NPP Candidate Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie & Agents
Multiple sources confirmed she and a female party agent suffered facial injuries during the melee. Vice President Bawumia, who visited victims on July 13, condemned the violence as “unprovoked and unacceptable,” promising support and urging prosecution of perpetrators.
3. Journalists
Media personnel were also targeted: a GHOne TV reporter was slapped and shoved by a police officer, leading to the officer’s interdiction and referral to the Professional Standards Bureau .
4. MP‑Elect Ewurabena Aubynn (NDC)
In a joint statement, she offered a public apology:
“Regardless of who was attacked… I am sorry this had to happen to my fellow Ghanaians.”
Police Response & Accountability
The Accra Regional Police have initiated investigations and assured the public that order was restored and voting continued in many areas . They have also interdicted the officer involved in the journalist assault. However, no further arrests have been announced.
Catholic Standard’s Appeal for Justice
We echo calls to:
EC: Review security on rerun and collation days.
Ghana Police Service: Conclude investigations and prosecute responsible parties.
Political Parties: Publicly condemn and discipline members involved in violence.
Civil Society & Faith Groups: Maintain pressure for democratic integrity.
Editorial Verdict
These attacks—against a former female MP, party agents, and journalists—are not mere infractions but threats to the democratic fabric. Free and fair elections demand safety for all participants. Ghana must choose the path of peaceful democracy: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.
Note: The Catholic Standard will continue to monitor developments and update readers on the status of investigations and legal proceedings stemming from these events.
