The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of setting a dangerous precedent for political rivalry, following the vandalism of the statue of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at the Efiankwanta Roundabout in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis of the Western Region.
Speaking at a press briefing, Issah Fuseini, the Western Regional Communications Officer of the NPP, described the act as barbaric and shameful, emphasizing that it reflects poorly on the country’s political maturity.
He explained that the statue erected by chiefs in the region to honor the numerous developmental projects undertaken by the former president and not something done by the NPP or Nana Akufo-Addo himself.
He lamented that such acts would create a political rivalry, particularly in the region, and indicated it could undermine national unity.
“This unfortunate act has set a dangerous precedent, and the NDC should bear in mind that they won’t be in power forever. Today, they target statues, but tomorrow, who knows what might be next? Such hostility has no place in our democracy,” he remarked.
Issah Fuseini warned that the growing political rivalry, sparked by such acts, could lead to further polarization. He suggested that when the NPP returns to power, the party might also refuse to recognize or maintain projects associated with former President John Dramani Mahama.
“If this is the path the NDC wants to take, then they should be prepared for what comes next. When the NPP comes to power, we may also refuse to entertain anything associated with John Dramani Mahama. Political rivalry has now been deeply entrenched in the Western Region, and this is entirely the doing of the NDC,” he stated.
Issah Fuseini also called on religious leaders, chiefs, and opinion leaders to speak out against the vandalism.
He urged the police to investigate and hold accountable anyone found to be behind the destruction, regardless of their political affiliations.
“We believe this act of lawlessness must not go unpunished. The police must act swiftly to uncover the truth and ensure that the perpetrators face the full force of the law,” he added.
Issah Fuseini refuted allegations by the NDC that NPP supporters were behind the act and argued that from the time the statue was commissioned, the NDC had openly opposed it and even issued threats to destroy it.
“The NDC’s claim that NPP thugs vandalized the statue is absurd. Under no circumstances would the NPP destroy something that honors its own legacy. From day one, the NDC threatened to destroy the statue, and now their actions confirm their hostility,” he explained.
The NPP has condemned the act and assured Ghanaians of its commitment to promoting peace, respect, and development in the political space.
