A solemn ceremony in honour of the late former Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Kumi, nearly descended into chaos on Friday after supporters of the opposition Patriotic Party (NPP) attempted to confront National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah.
The incident occurred at the Wenchi Durbar grounds in the Bono Region, where political leaders had gathered to mark the 40-day observance of the former MP’s passing.
Eyewitnesses say visibly agitated NPP supporters, including some women, moved towards Mr Asiedu Nketiah and his security detail in what appeared to be an attempt to physically assault them. A confrontation was averted after members of Mr Nketiah’s entourage intervened, backed by personnel from the Ghana Police Service who quickly moved in to provide support.
Tensions eased following the intervention of several senior NPP figures, including New Juaben South MP Michael Kofi Okyere Baafi, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye, and former Eastern Regional Chairman Kingston Akomeng Kissi. They helped calm the crowd and cleared a path for the NDC delegation to proceed and pay their respects to former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who were also in attendance.
Speaking to Channel One News, NDC Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande described the incident as “unfortunate” and called for greater political tolerance.
“This is worrying, especially as we continue to have conversations about eschewing political violence. To see such a scene unfold at a funeral is deeply regrettable,” he said. “We have taken a cue from this, and it will certainly redefine our relationship with the NPP heading into the next election.”
The event had been intended as a moment of unity and reflection in honour of the late Ernest Kumi, who was widely respected across the political divide.
