The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) has added its voice to the numerous calls for thorough investigations to be conducted into the violence that occurred Thursday, January 31, during the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency by-election.
The violence left at least 18 people injured.
The Conference expresses grave concern about the incident and condemns same in a statement issued Friday, February 1 and signed by the Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Lazarus Anondee.
“We condemn in no uncertain terms the reported shootings and assaults perpetrated by some unidentified groups resulting in injuries. Of particular concern is the reported use of vigilante groups to disturb the peace and quiet of the by-election.”
In the view of the Bishop’s Conference, the disturbances are a threat to Ghana’s democracy and the gains made so far as a country.
“The GCBC would like to state that; these incidents do not only pose a serious threat to our democracy but will also certainly draw back the progress and successes of our democratic gains. In addition, such manifestations of lawlessness and insecurity do not augur well for us as a nation as we prepare for the 2020 general elections,” the statement said.
The Conference is as well calling on the Electoral Commission, Ghana (EC) to liaise with the political parties to address all the challenges and fears of stakeholders in the conduct of peaceful elections.
Citizens are also advised to remain law-abiding and avoid all forms of violence.
Source: 3news.com|Ghana