Tensions ran high at the funeral of the late Akwatia MP, Ernest Kumi, in Wenchi when angry supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) attempted to physically assault National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah.
The confrontation occurred when Mr. Asiedu Nketiah arrived at the durbar grounds. His security detail and NDC members intervened to shield him until police officers stepped in to restore order.
Calm eventually returned after New Juaben South MP, Michael Kofi Okyere Baafi, NPP National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, and former Eastern Regional Chairman, Kingston Akomeng Kissi, intervened to de-escalate the situation. Their mediation allowed the NDC Chairman and his entourage to join President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and other dignitaries to pay their final respects.
NDC Deputy General Secretary, Mustapha Gbande, condemned the incident as “unfortunate,” warning that it could shape how the party engages with the NPP ahead of the 2028 general elections.
“This is worrying because in the midst of calls to eschew violence, look at what they have done at a funeral. We have taken a cue from it, and it will redefine our relationship going into the election,” Mr. Gbande told Channel One News.
The confrontation underscores persistent political tensions between Ghana’s two major parties, even in solemn national moments. Analysts warn that such incidents, if unchecked, could inflame mistrust as the country heads toward another election cycle.
