The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama, has urged Ghana’s traditional leaders to take a strong stand against political violence as the country approaches the December 2024 elections.

Speaking to members of the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs during his three-day campaign tour in Wa, Mahama expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of political violence across the country.

Mr Mahama attributed this rise in violence to a culture of impunity that exists within the political system, suggesting that those responsible for such acts believe they are protected by powerful figures.

He emphasised that until accountability is enforced, political operatives will continue to engage in violent activities without fear of repercussions.

According to him, the failure to address this issue poses a threat to national peace and security.

The former president warned that without decisive action, the escalating violence could undermine the safety of citizens during the election period.

He called for strong measures to be implemented to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control, urging the government and law enforcement agencies to ensure that offenders are held accountable for their actions.

Mahama’s concerns were highlighted by the recent clash between supporters of the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Mamobi, Accra, on Sunday.

The violent confrontation resulted in injuries, raising fears of further unrest as the elections draw closer.

He noted that such incidents could become more frequent if authorities fail to act swiftly and decisively.

In his address, Mr Mahama also cautioned Ghanaians to prepare for more acts of violence as he believes the current government is unlikely to take firm action against perpetrators.

He called on chiefs and moral leaders to speak out and help maintain peace, stressing the need for collective responsibility in safeguarding the country’s democracy.

“The reason why this continues is because there is impunity. Those who have those weapons know that nothing will happen to them; they will do anything and get away with it because they are operatives of the system and belong to one political establishment."

“Just watch, nothing will happen to them. Like Ayawaso West Wuogon, even if a commission is set and says these people should be dealt with, the government won’t deal with them and as long as the government doesn’t deal with them, others will be emboldened to do the same thing,” he said.