TUC tasks President Mahama to act on violent attacks

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has strongly condemned the widespread post-election violence that erupted after the 2024 elections and urged President John Dramani Mahama to act decisively by directing the Ghana Police Service to arrest and prosecute those responsible for the attacks.
In a statement, TUC Secretary-General Joshua Ansah described the violence as an affront to Ghana’s democracy, citing attacks on public sector workers and the destruction of state property as alarming developments.
TUC called on the President to empower the Ghana Police Service to arrest and prosecute individuals who, under the guise of political allegiance, destroy state property and attack innocent workers.
“We condemn in no uncertain terms these acts of molestation of innocent workers and needless destruction of state properties,” the TUC stated, expressing outrage over the recent spate of attacks targeting public sector workers and well-meaning citizens.
The violence, perpetuated largely by groups identifying themselves as supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has marred the nation’s democratic image following the peaceful transfer of power on January 7, 2025.
These groups have reportedly stormed state institutions, locked offices, and caused significant disruption, often in the presence of police personnel who appeared unable or unwilling to intervene.
The TUC noted that these acts tarnish Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy, warning that resources meant for economic development would instead have to be used to repair the damages caused.

TUC Calls for National Responsibility
The TUC urged all Ghanaians to refrain from acts of violence and vandalism, appealing for unity and respect for the nation’s hard-earned democratic reputation.
The statement highlighted the need for immediate government intervention to ensure accountability and restore order.
“This lawlessness undermines the progress we’ve made as a democratic nation and must be addressed decisively,” the TUC emphasized.
Critics have called on President Mahama to issue a strong warning against these actions and ensure that justice is served.

The violence unfolds
What began as isolated incidents of agitation quickly escalated into a nationwide wave of violence, with groups identifying as supporters of the NDC leading the charge.
The unrest began on election night, when vigilantes reportedly attacked political opponents and destroyed critical electoral documents.
After the NDC’s victory was announced, these groups went on a rampage, targeting government institutions, private businesses, and public officials.
Police response and arrests
The Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with the National Election Security Taskforce, has intensified efforts to restore order.
A total of 123 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence, with suspects being processed through the legal system.
Out of those arrested, 49 have been arraigned before court, with 16 granted bail and 33 remanded in custody.
Additionally, 70 suspects have been granted police inquiry bail as investigations continue.

EC Office in Damongo set ablaze
In Damongo, NDC supporters reportedly burned down a government building housing the Electoral Commission office.
This act of arson has drawn widespread condemnation and represents one of the most egregious attacks on public institutions in the wake of the elections.

Attack on Communication Minister’s residence
One of the most high-profile incidents involved the office and residence of Communication Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful.
On Sunday, a group of about 15 men invaded her property, stealing cash, a Nissan Hardbody vehicle, a television set, mobile phones, and three new motorbikes.

The invaders also vandalized CCTV cameras and security infrastructure.
The police are investigating the incident, which has raised concerns about the safety of public officials during this period of unrest.

Ayensuano EC office burnt
The Electoral Commission office at Ayensuano in the Eastern Region was burnt.

Confrontation at Ghana National Gas
A tense standoff unfolded yesterday at the Ghana National Gas Company Limited (GNGCL) headquarters in Accra.
A group of individuals, suspected to be NDC supporters, attempted to storm the premises, resulting in a confrontation with security personnel.
The situation escalated quickly, prompting the deployment of soldiers and police officers to maintain order.
Security forces fired warning shots to disperse the crowd, averting further chaos.
The incident underscored the increasing tension in the capital as the country grapples with post-election unrest.

Military intervenes at GPHA
Another high-profile incident was the attempted takeover of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) headquarters.
Early in the day, a group of unidentified men gathered at the entrance, intending to disrupt operations at one of Ghana’s key economic institutions.
The swift response of military personnel stationed at the site prevented the intruders from breaching the gates.
Video footage from the scene shows a tense standoff as soldiers formed a barrier and pushed back the crowd, ensuring that order was restored without significant disruptions.

Forestry Commission offices ransacked in Bono Region
In Sunyani, the Bono Regional Forestry Commission office was attacked by armed individuals believed to be NDC supporters.
The invaders seized two patrol vehicles, stole chainsaws, and removed batteries from an old vehicle.
The attackers attempted to take a heavy metal safe containing the commission’s funds but failed to lift it due to its weight.
They also forced open the gates of the Sunyani Forest Services Division and made away with motorbikes and lumber.

Tamale offices and warehouses ransacked
In Tamale, several government offices, including the Social Welfare, Community Development, and Veterinary Services departments, were ransacked.
Looters made off with furniture, official documents, fridges, ceiling fans, computers and other essential equipment.

Relief for droughts, floods victims looted
Warehouses containing relief supplies meant for communities affected by droughts and floods were also locked up by NDC supporters, delaying the distribution of much-needed aid.
The items, including fertilizer, rice, oil, and agrochemicals, remain confined in the warehouses.

Chereponi relief warehouses locked
In a related incident in Chereponi District, North East Region, NDC supporters locked several relief warehouses on December 9, further delaying assistance to vulnerable communities.

NADMO head office Looted
The NADMO head office in Accra was not spared in the wave of looting.
Electrical appliances and other items, including chest fridges, deep freezers, and sewing machines, were stolen.
These items were part of welfare schemes designed to assist persons with disabilities.
The looters broke into the offices on Sunday when the premises were unmanned, raising questions about the adequacy of security measures during this period.
The private sector was not spared. Facilities at ElectroChem’s salt mining operations in Ada were vandalized, and an attempt was made to disrupt gold exports at the Kotoka International Airport. Relief warehouses containing essential supplies for drought and flood victims in Tamale and Chereponi were also locked up, delaying critical aid distribution.