Deputy Director of Elections for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mahdi Gibril, has stirred controversy following comments made during an interview on Angel FM in which he warned the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to behave during the upcoming Akwatia by-election — or face physical retaliation.
“We’ll make sure there’s peace in Akwatia, but if the NPP misbehaves there too, they’ll be beaten,” Gibril declared, referencing the violence meted out to journalist and key NPP figures in the Ablekuma North re-run.
The statement, posted by Angel TV on Facebook, has drawn a wide range of reactions from the public. Some users supported the tough rhetoric, arguing that any provocation by the NPP should be met with force. Others, however, expressed disappointment, saying such threats were inappropriate and undermined democratic principles.
Many called for transparency, law enforcement, and non-violence as the foundation for peaceful elections, emphasizing that power should be exercised responsibly. Others warned that such comments could escalate tensions and potentially provoke unrest in Akwatia.
The Electoral Commission has yet to comment on the development, but observers say the by-election will now be under even greater scrutiny. With political tension mounting, stakeholders are being urged to commit to peace and uphold the rule of law.
