Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has condemned the violent disruptions at the Ablekuma North rerun, stating that the events were “very disturbing” and a departure from democratic norms.

“The reports of what has gone on at Ablekuma North this morning is very disturbing. This is not the democracy we want to see in Ghana. Our supporters are being attacked by thugs in the presence of the police who have been unable to protect them,” Bawumia said, referencing the assault on NPP parliamentary candidate Nana Akua Afriyie, former Fisheries Minister Hawa Koomson, the party’s deputy national organiser, among others at the St. Peter’s Polling Station.

Bawumia stressed that post-election periods should strengthen democracy—not endanger its citizens.

“After every election we want to see that the democracy is being enhanced and this is very important for the peace and stability of our country,” he emphasized.

He criticised the police for failing to provide adequate security.

“You recall that the background to this particular election is that the police had told the EC that they were unable to provide security to collate three pink sheets. But for some reason they were able to find security to conduct election in 19 polling stations, and today our people are being attacked with the police present and unable to provide security.”

The former Vice President warned against political self-defence measures, which he described as a path to “disaster.”

“We don’t want the country and political parties to start to think that they have to provide for their own safety. This will be a recipe for disaster.”

Bawumia also called on President John Mahama and the administration to ensure accountability, citing video evidence of those responsible.

“What we have to be clear about is that the people who have perpetrated these acts have been caught on video. I call on the president to take action and all the people in charge of this country, the administration to take action to bring the perpetrators to book.”

He stressed that justice must follow.

“This is the only way we can deter this in future. But we have seen them and let me assure that should they not be brought to book, we will not forget. They will be brought to book no matter how long it takes. We will not forget what has happened.”

Ablekuma North chaos: Bring perpetrators to book – Bawumia to Mahama