Damango EC Office Set Ablaze
The Electoral Commission (EC) office in Damango, the capital of the West Gonja District in the Northern Region of Ghana, was set ablaze in a violent attack that has left the local community in shock. The incident, which took place on the evening of December 7, 2024, has raised serious concerns about the security of electoral offices in the country.
The fire destroyed vital electoral materials, including documents and equipment necessary for the smooth conduct of elections in the district. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, though it is suspected that the act was politically motivated. No casualties have been reported, but the damage to the EC’s infrastructure and materials is significant.
Authorities have condemned the act, calling it an attempt to disrupt the upcoming elections in the region. The Northern Regional Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident, and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission has assured the public that it will take all necessary measures to ensure that the elections in the region proceed as scheduled.
This attack is not an isolated incident in Ghana, where incidents of violence and vandalism have been reported in the past, especially during election periods. Political tensions in the country have been rising in recent months, with several regions experiencing unrest. The Damango attack serves as a stark reminder of the fragile nature of the electoral process in certain parts of Ghana, where political rivalries and tensions often lead to violent confrontations.
The EC has called for increased security at its offices and electoral centers nationwide to prevent similar incidents. It also urged the public to remain calm and peaceful as they prepare for the upcoming elections. The Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring free, fair, and peaceful elections in Damango and across the country.
The attack has sparked outrage among many citizens, with calls for stronger legal action against those involved in election-related violence. Local leaders and political figures have also called for calm, urging citizens to reject any form of violence and work towards maintaining peace in the country.