CDS Africa Demands Action Against Rioting And Vandalism Targeting National Institutions

The recent wave of rioting and vandalism targeting national offices, allegedly carried out by supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is disturbing and must be stopped. As an organization that upholds the tenets of democracy and abhor violence, the Africa Center for Democracy and Socioeconomic Development condemns these destructive acts as they represent a serious threat to Ghana’s democratic principles, national stability, and the rule of law.

Reports from various news outlets indicate that multiple government buildings and offices have been targeted and looted, including the National Identification Authority (NIA), the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and MMDCE offices. We acknowledge that political expression should be exercised however, it must be through legal and peaceful means and not through destruction and intimidation. Therefore, the comments by the Deputy General Secretary of NDC Mustapha Gbande framing these actions as efforts to preserve government properties is distasteful and must not be encouraged. While CDS Africa disagrees with his comments, we commend the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Emmanuel Nii Ashie Moore, for strongly condemning these attacks and the party’s resolve to address the situation.

CDS Africa calls on the Ghana Police Service to continue investigations into these incidents and swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice. Acts of rioting and vandalism have no place in our democracy, and those responsible must be held accountable. Furthermore, we urge all political actors to engage in constructive dialogue and respect national institutions. The destruction of public property only serves to weaken our collective progress and harm the very citizens these offices are meant to serve. CDS Africa remains committed to advocating for peace, democracy, and accountability in governance. We call on citizens to reject violence and work towards a more unified and prosperous future.