One man sustained an eye injury in the Nalerigu/Gambaga constituency. This happened after an alleged mob attack on Sunday morning. The incident stems from a dispute within the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The injured man, Adam Shamuna, was reportedly attacked by about 15 individuals. These individuals are believed to support the East Mamprusi Municipal Chief Executive (MCE). The conflict started on an NDC WhatsApp group. The discussion was about how fertiliser should be given out to people.
Shamuna admitted to making comments that were seen as insulting to the MCE. He said these were his personal opinions to defend a politician he supports. He noted that supporters of the MCE were also making insults. Shamuna is thought to support Alhaji Baba Seidu Issifu, a former Member of Parliament. His alleged attackers may support the current MCE, Ibrahim Tia, who is also the North East Regional Minister.
This event shows growing disagreements within the NDC at the local level. Different groups within the party accuse each other of being disloyal. Shamuna claimed one attacker had a pistol and threatened his life. The total cost of this violence is not yet known.
Following the attack, the MCE reported Shamuna to the police. This is over his WhatsApp comments. The Gambaga District Police Commander invited Shamuna for questioning. The police described his post as offensive to the MCE, Bareche David Bukari. Shamuna plans to attend the invitation. He is ready to explain his comments. The police have not confirmed any arrests related to the physical assault. Efforts to get a comment from the MCE were unsuccessful.
Political infighting can harm a party's image. It can also distract from important policy issues. In Ghana, political parties often face internal challenges. These can arise from competition for power or resources. Such disputes can sometimes lead to unrest. The economic impact of such events is usually indirect. It affects investor confidence and public perception of stability. However, the direct monetary cost of such incidents is generally not quantified unless significant damage to property or disruption of economic activity occurs. The current incident did not involve theft or destruction of valuable goods. The fight did not stop any business from operating.