The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Effutu, Alhaji Kassim Zubeiru, has urged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to de-escalate tensions and work towards peace following the December 7 elections, which saw isolated incidents of violence.
Alhaji Zubeiru expressed concerns over the tense atmosphere in Effutu, where heightened emotions and desires for retaliation are evident among supporters of both major political parties.
He emphasized that the events surrounding the elections have fostered an environment of blame and retaliation, which could threaten the peace in the area if not addressed promptly.
Speaking at the launch of the 67th Masquerade Festival, the MCE called on leaders of both parties to engage in dialogue and urge a ceasefire, fostering unity and reconciliation. He also appealed to the constituents to prioritize the common good of the area, promoting peaceful coexistence over political divisions.
“In Winneba almost everyone is a brother to one another and so I believe since we are done with the election the elders in the communities must call everyone to order. We pray the police do whatever it is to maintain peace.
“A few days ago a colleague DCE texted me informing me that some NDC people had planned to ransack the assembly and disturb the peace we were enjoying. This is not good for the democracy we are enjoying. At a point I had to go to the Assembly and collect valuables including street lights and other items to another location to prevent them from being stolen”Kassim Zubeiru said.
“As people of Winneba, we must avoid all these things since it is disturbing the peace we are enjoying here as people. We must talk to our supporters to resist creating tension”Kassim Zubeiru said.
“I am still the Municipal Chief Executive until 7 January when we hand over to them so they must exercise patience. I have engaged the police to be up to the task but I must also say that since President-Elect John Mahama spoke things have been a bit calm,” the DCE said.
Various youth groups in Winneba have also joined the call and urged their colleagues who are political activists to ceasefire. Nana Yaw Asamoah, a youth leader and lead organizer for next year’s masquerade event wants the development of Winneba prioritized ahead of extreme partisan politics.
“We need peace in Effutu even after the election. On January 1, 2025, we will be having the annual Navida Winneba Masquefest where hundreds of people from far and near will come to Winneba to catch a glimpse of the festival and we need peace to ensure that the festival is successful.
“This festival brings a lot of revenue to the Municipality. There will be a lot of activities on the day and we will use that day to preach peace “Nana Yaw Asamoah organizer of the Navida Masquefest said.
Meanwhile, the Winneba Divisional police command has pledged to have all the elections-related violence looked into and those found culpable punished by law.
Divisional commander DSP Gabriel Kyei Yeboah is therefore entreating all victims to report to the police and provide evidence that would help identify perpetrators and have them put before the law.
