Violence Erupts During NDC Branch Elections in Assin Central

Violence disrupted the National Democratic Congress (NDC) branch executive elections in the Assin Central Constituency after a deputy constituency youth organiser aspirant was allegedly attacked during the voting process at the Bamboo Factory polling station in Assin Fosu.

The incident occurred during the party’s internal elections and left one aspirant with serious injuries that required urgent medical attention. The disturbance has raised concerns about security during internal political contests and prompted calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.

According to information gathered at the polling station, the victim, Mr Yaw Owusu, was assaulted after questioning what he believed were irregularities in the voting process. He was initially rushed to St. Francis Xavier Hospital in Assin Fosu before being referred to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for specialised treatment because of the severity of his injuries.

Mr Owusu claimed the confrontation began after concerns emerged during the election for the branch women’s organiser position. According to his account, election officials initially announced that 17 delegates were eligible to vote at the polling station. However, after ballots were counted, a total of 25 votes had reportedly been cast.

The difference between the announced number of delegates and the ballots counted prompted Mr Owusu and some supporters to question the credibility of the voting process. He alleged that shortly after raising those concerns, a group of unidentified men believed to be affiliated with an opposing camp attacked him with sticks and other objects.

The injured aspirant said he suffered multiple injuries during the assault, including injuries to his head, neck and eye. He further alleged that his attackers twisted his neck during the confrontation, leaving him in severe pain before he was taken to hospital.

Medical personnel who attended to him reportedly diagnosed a fractured neck, an eye injury, head injuries and suspected spinal complications. Because of the seriousness of his condition, doctors referred him to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for further examination and specialised treatment.

The incident caused panic among delegates and party supporters gathered at the polling centre. Voting activities were briefly disrupted as people sought safety while others attempted to restore calm at the venue. Witnesses described the atmosphere as tense following the attack, although election activities eventually resumed after order was restored.

Mr Owusu has appealed to the national leadership of the National Democratic Congress to intervene in the matter. He specifically called on the party’s National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, to ensure that the incident is thoroughly investigated and that appropriate disciplinary action is taken if party members are found responsible.

He also appealed to the Ghana Police Service to identify the individuals involved in the assault and prosecute them according to the law. He said acts of violence have no place in democratic processes and urged authorities to protect party members participating in internal elections.

Political observers have expressed concern that violence during internal party elections could undermine confidence in democratic processes and discourage members from actively participating in party activities. They note that peaceful elections are essential for maintaining unity and credibility within political organisations.

Internal party elections play an important role in selecting local leaders who coordinate grassroots activities and help prepare political parties for national elections. As a result, transparency, fairness and security during these elections remain essential to preserving trust among party members.

The reported allegations of over voting are also likely to attract attention from party officials responsible for supervising the electoral process. Election irregularities, if confirmed, could influence the outcome of contests and create divisions among supporters unless they are addressed promptly and transparently.

The NDC has consistently emphasised the importance of peaceful internal elections and respect for democratic principles. Incidents such as the one reported in Assin Central highlight the need for stronger security arrangements and effective dispute resolution mechanisms during party electoral processes.

As investigations continue, party members and local residents will be looking to both the NDC leadership and law enforcement agencies for answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the violence. Many observers believe that a transparent investigation and swift action against anyone found responsible will help restore confidence and reinforce the importance of peaceful political participation.

The incident serves as a reminder that democratic competition should be conducted through dialogue, respect and lawful processes rather than intimidation or violence. Ensuring the safety of participants remains critical to maintaining the integrity of internal political elections and strengthening Ghana’s democratic institutions.

Also Read: Ghana Nears End of External Debt Restructuring After Final Bond Exchange