Samson Asaki Awingobit, the National Chairman of the People’s National Convention (PNC), has formally called for the immediate arrest of Salam Mustapha, the National Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). This demand follows comments made by Mustapha that threatened to "weaponise" the NPP's youth to destabilize the country and make it "ungovernable." Awingobit branded Mustapha's statements as dangerous and a direct threat to national peace and security.
Speaking at a press conference in Kumasi on May 22, 2026, after a meeting with PNC regional chairmen, Mr. Awingobit urged the government and key security bodies, including the National Security Coordinator and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), to act decisively. He stressed the need to prosecute political figures whose words could incite violence. "We want them to put such a person before the law court. He should be immediately arrested," Awingobit stated during the press briefing.
This incident fits into a broader pattern of heightened political rhetoric in Ghana, particularly as general elections approach. Such pronouncements can impact public confidence and potentially fuel public disorder. The PNC's concern echoes a historical understanding of how inflammatory language from political leaders can lead to significant crises. For instance, the 1994 genocide in Rwanda serves as a stark historical example cited by Awingobit, illustrating the catastrophic potential of unchecked political incitement.
Mr. Awingobit referenced recent efforts by the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons to disarm civilians. He argued that threats involving weapons and violence, even if made in a political context, should not be dismissed. The PNC Chairman also condemned separate threats allegedly made by an NPP communication member against the headquarters of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC). "These are reckless statements. It should not come from leadership of a bigger political party like the NPP," he stressed.
The PNC made it clear that no political group is above the law. The party urged the government to enforce laws equitably. Awingobit maintained the PNC's commitment to national cohesion and democratic stability means it cannot ignore threats to peace and security. The press conference followed internal discussions within the PNC concerning party reorganisation and strategies for the upcoming 2028 general elections.
The PNC's call for arrest highlights the delicate balance between political expression and national security. Security agencies are now expected to investigate these claims and take appropriate action. The response from both the government and the NPP will be closely watched by the public and political observers. Future statements from political leaders will likely be scrutinized for their potential to incite unrest.