Cynthia Morrison, the Member of Parliament for Agona West, denied that her supporters were involved in a gunfire incident during a campaign rally in Agona West on Sunday, October 28.
During an interview, the Agona West MP emphasized that her supporters were not to blame for the gunfire incident that caused one person to be injured and led to a state of panic at the event.
The incident allegedly took place as followers of Chris Arthur, a candidate running for parliament under the New Patriotic Party (NPP), were coming back from a campaign event held in Otinkorang, a town in Agona West. During their journey, they came across a crowd of Cynthia Morrison’s followers, who were holding a small rally in Agona Nyankrom.
Gunshots rang out as the groups crossed paths, injuring Haruna Rashid, the campaign manager for Chris Arthur. Rashid was shot in the ribs and quickly taken to the Agona Swedru Government Hospital for treatment. The hospital also received other individuals with minor injuries during the chaos.
Morrison claimed she did not hear the gunfire when it occurred and only found out about the incident afterwards.
The police informed me that they had placed me inside the car at one stage. Slipping through the entrance, I settled into a seat and inquired about the events unfolding. They claimed it was the sound of a gunshot. I actually didn’t hear the gunshot because the sound system was positioned closer to me.
I sat in the car with my driver and security, but then we were instructed to avoid taking the same route back.
We were instructed by the police to take the route along the outskirts. Later I learned that a few individuals had sustained injuries and were consequently transferred to the polyclinic.
I was busy leading a rally, so how could it have come from my camp? The police granted me permission. They provided us with 27 policemen in their vehicle and guided me to the precise location I needed to be. Everywhere we look, there is a police officer directing us. When we turn left, they instruct us to go left.
We must inform them about the location where they will instruct us to make a turn. They had created a detailed map for us to follow. I did not have the itinerary at all. The MP further explained that they planned the itinerary.
An investigation has been initiated by the Central Regional Police Command in response to the events. Morrison is hopeful that the authorities will swiftly address the issue and prevent any further escalation.
In response to escalating tensions, residents and supporters in Agona West are appealing for peace and encouraging all parties to conduct their campaigns peacefully as the election season draws near.
