Tension is escalating in Kasoa following reports of alleged harassment and assault on supporters of presidential aspirant Dr. Bryan Acheampong, with the incident reportedly linked to the immediate past Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Hawa Koomson.
According to multiple accounts, a group described by witnesses as “machomen,” allegedly associated with Ms. Koomson, confronted supporters of Dr. Acheampong’s campaign in parts of the Kasoa enclave on the evening of Sunday, January 25. The confrontation reportedly turned violent, leaving several supporters injured and traumatized.
Eyewitnesses claim the victims were beaten and intimidated, forcing some to flee the area for safety. One of the victims, identified as Emefa, told party officials that the group subjected them to physical assault during the encounter.
By Monday morning, January 26, further allegations emerged suggesting that Ms. Koomson was present at a party office during the incident and allegedly issued directives that led to the attack. While these claims are yet to be independently verified, they have significantly intensified political tension in the area.
Victims of the alleged assault reportedly spent the night shuttling between the Kasoa Police Station and a nearby hospital, where they received medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident.
The Kasoa clash comes on the heels of a recent violent episode involving Ms. Koomson during the Ablekuma North by-election, where she was reportedly assaulted by individuals believed to be aligned with the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC). That incident drew widespread public condemnation and renewed concerns about political violence.
Political observers warn that the Kasoa incident has further heightened anxiety within the party, particularly as it unfolds just days ahead of a crucial internal party election scheduled for Saturday. Concerns are mounting over the safety of aspirants and their supporters during campaign activities.
In response, party members are calling on the national leadership to urgently review and strengthen security arrangements at the regional, constituency, and national levels. They argue that failure to act decisively could erode confidence in the party’s internal democratic processes and discourage grassroots participation.
Some supporters in Kasoa have also raised alarm over what they describe as a pattern of intimidation allegedly linked to Ms. Koomson, a known supporter of former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. They are urging party leaders to intervene swiftly to restore calm and guarantee a level playing field for all contenders.
The matter has since been formally reported to the Kasoa Police, where statements have reportedly been taken as investigations continue. Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the allegations.
Story: Nyamebeye Kofi Ansah Sasraku