Outgoing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed strong condemnation of the violence and vandalism that erupted following the 2024 general elections, holding the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) partly responsible.

Speaking at the bicentennial anniversary celebration of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana on Sunday, December 22, in Accra, the president described the post-election disturbances as a blemish on Ghana’s democratic process.

“It is with deep concern that I acknowledge the unfortunate incidents of post-election hooliganism, vandalism, and violence. These actions threatened to tarnish the beauty of our democratic exercise,” he stated.

“Such acts are completely unnecessary and wholly unacceptable. They must never reoccur.”

President Akufo-Addo accused the NDC of playing a role in the unrest, stating, “It is particularly regrettable that these unfortunate disturbances appeared to involve some executives and sympathizers of the victorious party, the National Democratic Congress.”

He urged political leaders and their supporters to act responsibly to safeguard Ghana’s democracy.

The president commended the Police Service for their efforts in restoring order, highlighting their pivotal role in monitoring the elections and ensuring the overall peace of the process.

“I also commend the security services, especially the police, for the effective monitoring of the election, which ensured a peaceful process,” he noted.

However, he urged the Police Service to adopt more proactive measures to handle future disturbances more swiftly.

“The leadership of the police must review its practices, as they allowed the post-election violence to linger for too long before it was brought under control,” he emphasized.

President Akufo-Addo also lauded the Electoral Commission (EC) for what he described as diligent and transparent efforts in overseeing the electoral process, compiling results, and delivering them credibly.

“The EC’s work in supervising the elections was commendable and contributed to the peaceful conduct of the polls,” he remarked.

The president concluded his remarks by urging Ghanaians to continue championing democracy, emphasizing its role in the country’s development and stability.

“Let us work together to uphold and protect Ghana’s enviable democratic credentials,” he said, reiterating the need for peace and unity as the nation transitions to a new administration.