TUC enraged over post-election violence
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has expressed deep concern and outrage over recent post-election attacks on public sector workers and state properties, attributing the acts to individuals claiming allegiance to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Mr. Joshua Ansah, the TUC described the attacks as unwarranted and a stain on Ghana’s democratic reputation.
The statement highlighted that groups identifying as NDC supporters have reportedly invaded state institutions, locking up offices, and causing chaos. In some cases, these actions were allegedly carried out in the presence of police personnel, who, according to the TUC, appeared either incapable or unwilling to intervene.
“These acts of vandalism have stained an otherwise peaceful election and beautiful transfer of political power from one government to another,” the TUC noted, emphasizing that the incidents undermine the global praise Ghana has received for its democratic maturity.
Call for Police Action
The TUC criticized the Ghana Police Service for failing to arrest and prosecute perpetrators, a situation it believes is contributing to lawlessness and a lack of respect for the rule of law. The organization called on President John Dramani Mahama to take decisive action by directing the police to apprehend those responsible for the destruction and ensure justice is served.
“We are calling on the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, to go beyond the condemnation of these violent acts by empowering and directing the Ghana Police Service to arrest and prosecute people who hide behind their party colours to destroy state properties and engage in unwarranted attacks on innocent Ghanaian workers,” the statement read.
Impact of Vandalism
The TUC expressed concern over the financial implications of the destruction, noting that resources used to repair damaged state properties would divert funds from critical economic development projects.
“Government will have to find resources to fix the damage caused to state properties with taxpayers’ money, which could have been used to fix the economy,” the statement added.
Preserving Ghana’s Democratic Reputation
The union also appealed to all Ghanaians to refrain from actions that tarnish the country’s reputation as a beacon of democracy under the Fourth Republic. The peaceful transition of power on January 7, 2025, was a significant milestone, but the post-election violence threatens to overshadow this achievement.
The TUC’s call echoes broader concerns about post-election violence that has occasionally marred Ghana’s political landscape. While Ghana has earned international acclaim for its peaceful elections and smooth transitions of power, incidents of unrest and vandalism by party supporters have emerged as a recurring challenge. The TUC reiterated its condemnation of the attacks, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to safeguard Ghana’s democratic values and maintain its reputation as a model for governance in Africa.
