Police officers stopped New Patriotic Party (NPP) elections for polling stations in Bunkpurugu on Sunday. This happened because party officials allegedly tried to hold the elections. The High Court in Nalerigu had issued an interim injunction last Friday. Seventeen applicants filed a motion against the electoral process. They claimed violations of party rules and natural justice. Justice Samuel Bright Acquah granted the injunction. He stated that proceeding with elections from May 10 to May 15 could cause severe harm. This harm could make any final court decision meaningless. This order was served on all parties. It was also reported in the news. Despite this, some executives attempted to conduct the elections on Sunday. This led to protests. Security forces intervened.
Armed police officers went to a polling station in Bimbagu. They also went to the Lutheran Church in Bunkpurugu. Election materials were confiscated. This was to stop the voting from happening. The District Police Commander reportedly summoned party members. He warned them of arrest if they defied the court order. The NPP Constituency Chairman, Thomas Elisha, called the situation unfortunate. He accepted responsibility for the confusion. He said he received the court injunction late on Friday. He was attending a funeral on Saturday. He planned to inform the election committee on Sunday. The Commander contacted him about the tension. The chairman urged calm. He asked members to respect the court order. All election activities must stop. This will continue until the court makes another ruling. Some applicants agree with the call for calm. They insist on following the law. The matter is still before the court.
This incident highlights internal party disputes within Ghana’s political landscape. Such conflicts can emerge during internal party elections. These elections are crucial for selecting delegates and candidates. The NPP is the ruling party. Internal wrangling can affect public perception. It can also influence the party's preparedness for future general elections. The recent High Court action underscores the importance of legal compliance in political processes. Cases challenging election procedures are not uncommon. They often involve accusations of unfairness or rule-breaking. The dates of this incident are May 10 to May 15, 2026, following a court order on May 9, 2026. The North East region has seen such political activities.
The NPP Constituency Chairman, Thomas Elisha, explained his delay in communicating the injunction. He cited his busy schedule and a funeral commitment. He is now working to convene the election committee. He wants to ensure they understand the court's position. He will then inform the wider constituency that elections are suspended. This is until the party complies with the court's directive. Applicants who sought the injunction are watching closely. They support the call for peace. However, they stress the need for strict adherence to legal procedures. The court will continue to hear the case. The outcome will determine the next steps for the Bunkpurugu NPP elections. The legal challenge targets the electoral process itself. Specific party rules and principles of fairness are at the core. The High Court’s interim ruling emphasizes the potential for significant harm.