Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed deep concern over reported acts of violence and lawlessness allegedly carried out by supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following John Dramani Mahama’s election victory.

In a statement, the Vice-President called for immediate action to quell the unrest, stressing the importance of maintaining the country’s peace and unity.

“I have noted with deep concern the embarrassing state of lawlessness and thuggery being unleashed on innocent Ghanaians and state institutions by members of the National Democratic Congress,” the Vice-President said.

He urged Mr Mahama to demonstrate statesmanship by taking swift steps to control his supporters.

“I wish to call on the President-elect, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, to exhibit statesmanship by reining in his supporters in order to preserve the peace and unity of the country,” he appealed.

The Vice-President highlighted several troubling incidents, including alleged attacks on collation centres, public offices, and private properties.

He noted that these acts, including threats to individuals perceived as New Patriotic Party (NPP) sympathisers, undermine Ghana’s democratic values.

“There have been many incidents of NDC members besieging collation centres with offensive weapons to forcibly declare NDC parliamentary candidates as winners of some parliamentary contests. These wanton acts of lawlessness and brutality have been extended to state institutions and public offices, looting and stealing state properties in the process,” he stated.

The Vice-President also criticised the perceived silence of Mr Mahama and the NDC leadership in the face of these actions. He expressed regret that such incidents were occurring after what has been widely regarded as a credible electoral process.

He called on the President-elect to prioritise national interest, reminding him of his responsibility to safeguard lives and property.

“I would like to remind President Mahama that he has won an election; he has not staged a coup d’etat. He has a responsibility to contribute to protecting life and property,” he emphasised.

The Vice-President warned that continued acts of violence could compel individuals to defend themselves, a scenario that could tarnish the country’s democratic image.

“The last thing anybody wants is to mar the beauty of the successful elections that have just been concluded. Mr Mahama and the NDC should demonstrate that they are not reluctant democrats,” the statement added.