What was meant to be a solemn farewell for the late former Akwatia MP, Ernest Kumi, nearly descended into chaos when the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, arrived at the Wenchi Durbar grounds to pay his respects.

Moments after his arrival, visibly agitated women and some supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) attempted to physically confront the NDC Chairman and his security team.

The situation quickly escalated until Mr. Nketia’s security detail, supported by accompanying party members, resisted the attacks.

It took the timely intervention of Ghana Police Service officers, who moved in to restore calm.

The tense standoff was eventually defused through the intervention of New Juaben South MP Michael Kofi Okyere Baafi, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye, and former Eastern Regional NPP Chairman Kingston Akomeng Kissi.

They appealed to the angry supporters and cleared the way for Mr. Asiedu Nketia and his delegation to proceed to the section where former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia were seated.

Reacting to the incident, NDC Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande described the episode as “unfortunate” and expressed concern about its implications for political engagement ahead of the 2024 elections.

“This is worrying, especially when we continue to preach against violence.

To see this happen at a funeral is unacceptable. We have taken a cue from it, and it will redefine how we relate with the NPP going into the elections,” he told the media.

Despite the turbulence, the NDC Chairman was able to pay homage to the late statesman alongside other dignitaries present.