News:
September 1, 2010
The Member of Parliament for Okere constituency, Dan Kweku Botwe, has strongly condemned the continuous acts of violence that has characterized by- elections in the country over the years, including the just ended Atiwa by- election.
Citing the violence during the Akwatia and Chereponi by- elections, he noted that Ghana is siting on a time- bomb which may explode if steps are not taken immediately to deal with electoral violence, a situation which could have far reaching consequences for the security of the state.
The Atiwa by election held on Tuesday was marred by several acts of violence instigated by thugs who infiltrated the constituency and in some instances disrupted voting process which was going on peacefully.
Some supporters and members of the ruling National Democratic Congress party led by Azorka were also reported to have manhandled some of the residents in a cruel manner, ostensibly to take advantage to rig the election.
Speaking to Ghanamps.gov.gh Hon. Dan Kweku Botwe, expressed surprise at the inability of the huge number of police personnel in the constituency to deal with the violent situation he described as shameful.
‘’ I find it difficult to understand why 1200 police personnel deployed in one constituency could not maintain peace in that area, the police could not effect any arrest despite the fact that crimes were committed in their full glare’’, he said.
‘’The police failed woefully to live up to expectation, whoever was that ‘’big man’ controlling the police in Atiwa should be ashamed of himself’’, he added. Dan Botwe, called on the police to be bold enough to discharge its constitutional duty without fear of favour.
He emphasized the need for Ghanaians to eschew such unwarranted misdeed during political activities as the country strives to enhance its democratic development.
Source: Kwadwo Anim/Ghanamps.gov.gh