By: Kekeli K. Blamey
In the Gomoa West district of the Central Region, a violent altercation between supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has left the community in a state of turmoil.
The clash, which was reportedly sparked by disagreements over the distribution of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s recent introduction of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) machines, escalated into a violent confrontation, leaving one man seriously injured with his ear severed.
The incident unfolded when members of the two major political parties clashed over the allocation of government-supplied DRIP machines intended for road materials and vehicles to each constituency.
However, accusations of favouritism and unfair distribution of the machines led to mounting tensions between the political factions.
The argument quickly spiralled out of control, leading to violent confrontations.
Some cars, suspected of belonging to government officials and senior civil servants present for the event, were also speeding away from the venue.
According to the report, some chiefs who were present for the event had to take to their heels when the violence erupted.
Reports stated that during the melee, one man was brutally attacked, resulting in the severing of his ear.
The violent clash also saw the unexpected flight of traditional leaders from the community.
Local chiefs, who are often called upon to mediate disputes, were forced to flee for their safety as the situation became increasingly volatile.
The competition between the NPP and NDC often goes beyond electoral rivalry, occasionally manifesting in violent clashes over resources and developmental projects.
On September 4, 2024, a clash erupted between supporters of the NPP and the NDC in Bommoden, a town within the Krachi West district of the Oti Region.
The conflict was triggered by a disagreement over who should lead the deployment of DRIP machines, which are intended to enhance road connections to the Krachi West District Assembly.
These machines are a crucial part of the district’s infrastructure improvement plans, and both parties have vested interests in overseeing their operation.
As the confrontation escalated, one person was seriously injured. The injured individual was promptly rushed to Dr Bawuah Clinic in Kete Krachi, where they are currently receiving medical attention.
The severity of the injury underscores the intensity of the clash, which could have led to even more tragic outcomes had the situation not been contained.
