Mustapha Gbande, Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has vehemently denied accusations made by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader, alleging his involvement in inciting violence during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun election.
In a strongly worded rejoinder dated 12th July 2025, Mustapha Gbande described the claims as “false, reckless, and politically motivated,” insisting that he had no prior knowledge of or participation in any violent acts during the election held across 19 polling stations on Friday, 11th July.
Gbande unreservedly condemned all forms of lawlessness and called for a thorough investigation by the Ghana Police Service. “I categorically deny any involvement in, or prior knowledge of, any of the incidents he referred to,” he stated, emphasizing that Afenyo-Markin’s allegations were a smear campaign aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
The NDC Deputy General Secretary expressed disappointment that a senior legislator and trained lawyer like Afenyo-Markin would engage in what he termed “disinformation and character assassination,” which he said undermines Ghana’s democratic discourse.
Gbande clarified that he was in the constituency for routine electoral monitoring and was not present at the polling station when an altercation involving former MP and Minister Mavis Hawa Koomson occurred. However, upon being alerted, he rushed to the scene to assist in de-escalating the situation. Contrary to the “false narrative” circulated, Gbande revealed that he arranged for his driver to transport Koomson to the hospital.
The NDC official urged the Electoral Commission and relevant authorities to bolster mechanisms that protect the integrity of elections and ensure the safety of all political actors. He reiterated his commitment to peace, fair participation, and responsible leadership, values he believes should guide Ghana’s political landscape.
Gbande disclosed that he has referred Afenyo-Markin’s comments to his lawyers for legal advice, signaling potential legal action. He stressed the importance of upholding truth, accountability, and the rule of law in political engagements.
Undeterred by the allegations, Gbande affirmed his dedication to serving the public with honesty and conviction. As tensions simmer following the contentious rerun, Ghanaians await the outcome of police investigations to bring clarity and justice to the incidents.
Read the statement in full below:
