No bloodbath on December 7 …Otumfuo Warns Politicians

OTUMFUO OSEI Tutu II, the Asantehene, insists violence which can lead to bloodbath and destruction of properties, is the last thing that Ghanaians would wish for.

In line with this, he has urged politicians and the political parties that they represent, to be committed to peaceful dialogue and play valuable roles to help make the elections free, fair and peaceful.

“We don’t want fights so politicians should campaign on ideas and also do away with all activities that have the potential of causing violent acts, which is not necessary”, he said.

Otumfuo gave the address when the Vice President, Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, led a powerful delegation of New Patriotic Party (NPP) members to the Manhyia Palace on Sunday.

Dr. Bawumia, who was to kickstart his campaign tour of the Ashanti Region, was at the palace to seek Otumfuo’s blessings and approval before he starts his campaign.

Otumfuo said Ghana has become famous globally because the country has been able to protect its peace since the inception of the 1992 constitution so the “the polls must be peaceful”.

He particularly warned the youth not to allow themselves to be used by politicians to foment trouble and violence, stressing that the citizenry should all play roles to maintain peace.

The Asantehene, whose statement was brief, also advised any politician that would have concerns about the results of the elections, to take necessary legal actions to ensure peace.

“If you realize that the election results was not fairly declared, then take legal steps to seek justice, but don’t fight”, Otumfuo said, adding that the state needs peace to develop”.

Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, on his part, said the NPP would thoroughly explain its successes in political office to woo the voters, stressing that the coming elections should be peaceful.