The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has reconvened its Bantama Constituency executive elections under heavy security following the disruption of the process on Saturday by unidentified men.

The election, which was being held at the Kumasi Cultural Centre to elect new constituency executives, was halted midway after the men allegedly stormed the venue, destroyed ballot materials and caused panic among delegates and party officials.

One person sustained a leg injury during the disturbance, while three others were arrested by the police.

The incident raised concerns about political vigilantism and its potential threat to internal party democracy.

For the rescheduled election, security has been tightened at the venue, with personnel from the Ghana Police Service and the NPP’s National Security Taskforce stationed at entry and exit points to maintain order.

JoyNews has gathered that a court injunction has been placed on the Bantama Constituency election, preventing the Electoral Commission from supervising the process.

Despite the controversy, delegates turned out in large numbers to cast their votes in what was described as a calm atmosphere compared to Saturday’s chaotic scenes.

Speaking to journalists, the incumbent Constituency Organiser, Nana Boakye Danquah, popularly known as Nana B, said the regional election committee authorised the process after reviewing the circumstances surrounding Saturday’s disruption.

“The regional executives are supervising this election directly. We had to act swiftly because our constitution demands that we have executives in place to continue party work,” he said.

He disclosed that more than 1,800 delegates were expected to participate in the election, insisting that the exercise had so far been peaceful.

Nana B condemned the violence that disrupted Saturday’s election and urged party members to respect democratic principles.

“The violence that happened yesterday, where one person was injured and three were arrested, should not be entertained in the NPP. We are a democratic party and we must not allow thuggery to derail our internal processes,” he stated.

He expressed optimism that the party would emerge stronger and united ahead of the 2028 general elections.

“Our focus now is to mobilise more votes for our flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and to win power for the NPP in 2028,” he added.

In a show of determination, Kwabena Agyei, the delegate who sustained a leg injury during the disruption, returned to the polling centre on crutches to cast his vote.

Speaking to JoyNews, he said he was still recovering after receiving treatment at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital but chose to participate because of his commitment to the party.

“I’m not feeling all that better, but because of the betterment of the NPP in Bantama, I had to come and vote. This party means a lot to us,” he said.

His appearance received applause from fellow delegates, who described his decision as a demonstration of resilience.

However, the election has been accompanied by further tension, as some delegates and party members opposed to the reconvening of the polls have reportedly placed curses on individuals they accuse of participating in what they describe as an illegitimate process.

The aggrieved members argue that proceeding with the election despite the alleged injunction undermines due process and the party’s regulations.

The outcome of the election will determine the new leadership structure for Bantama, a constituency considered a stronghold of the NPP.

Party observers say the ability of the newly elected executives to promote unity and strengthen grassroots mobilisation will be crucial as the party prepares for the 2028 general elections.

The developments in Bantama have renewed calls for stronger internal security and dispute resolution mechanisms within the NPP ahead of future internal elections.