Johnson Asiedu Nketia, Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), has criticised Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, for his remarks concerning the violence witnessed during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun.
Speaking to UTV on Friday, July 18, 2025, Mr. Nketia cautioned Sam George to reflect carefully on his new responsibilities as a minister of state, stressing that only the state has the authority to punish offenders under Ghana’s democratic system. He warned that no individual, regardless of circumstance, has the right to exact personal revenge.
> “Democracy has not given anyone the right to exact punishment apart from the state. Even if someone slapped you and you decided to retaliate, you would also be committing a crime,†Nketia remarked.
Mr. Nketia described Sam George’s comments as appearing to justify the violence, which he strongly condemned. He acknowledged that while Sam George may speak out of frustration—especially given his own experiences with electoral violence—his current ministerial position demands restraint and responsibility.
> “I heard Sam George say this is just the beginning. I understand his feelings because he has suffered from electoral violence before. But now, he is a minister of state and must conduct himself accordingly. He must rise above his personal sentiments. Yes, it’s painful; even Jesus got angry at a point,†Nketia added.
Context of the Violence
The Ablekuma North rerun, held in 19 polling stations, was marred by violent incidents. Media reports indicated that Mavis Hawa Koomson, a former NPP MP and former Minister of Fisheries, was allegedly assaulted. Viral videos showed thugs attacking her at the St. Peter’s polling station in the constituency.
Reacting to the attacks, Sam George, who is also the MP for Ningo Prampram, remarked that those who justified violence during the 2019 elections have no moral right to now condemn such acts. He stressed that the law must apply equally to all and highlighted the need for fairness and consistency within Ghana’s democratic framework.
Nketia Urges Action from Security Agencies.
While condemning the violence, Mr. Nketia reiterated the need for state institutions to uphold law and order. He urged the security agencies to take decisive action against electoral disturbances to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
> “The state agencies must do their job. Where state agencies fail in their duty to prosecute criminals, it often leads to instant justice,†he warned.
Mr. Nketia also emphasised the importance of responsible public discourse, particularly from government officials, as a means of safeguarding peace and stability in Ghana’s democratic process.