The Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has denounced recent attacks on state institutions and public officials that have marred the nation’s political transition following the December 7 general elections.
In a statement, the CDD expressed alarm over reports of hooliganism, vandalism, raids, occupations of public facilities, and threats of eviction, which have increasingly characterized political transitions in Ghana.
A growing threat to democratic stability
The Centre warned that if these actions go unchecked, they risk becoming a permanent and damaging feature of the country’s politics.
Such tendencies, the CDD noted, undermine efforts to move away from the “winner-takes-all” political culture and threaten Ghana’s democratic stability.
Call for swift action
The CDD urged security agencies to take decisive action by clamping down on incidents of post-election violence and arresting perpetrators.
It further appealed to the new National Democratic Congress (NDC)-led government to send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
In line with its “Resetting Governance and Politics” agenda, the government was urged to support police investigations and allow them to operate independently to bring offenders to justice.
Proposal for enhanced penalties
To deter future occurrences, the CDD recommended introducing enhanced criminal penalties for post-election hooliganism, akin to the sanctions imposed on those involved in political vigilantism.
Upholding democratic principles
The Centre concluded by emphasizing the importance of protecting democratic principles and called on all stakeholders to work towards fostering a peaceful and orderly political transition culture.
These actions, the CDD stressed, are essential to maintaining Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
