In a surprising development, Samira Bawumia, the wife of NPP flagbearer Alhaji Bawumia, has drawn criticism for allegedly invoking tribal politics by urging Fulanis to support her husband’s candidacy.
This move has surfaced amid perceptions of a need for clear campaign messaging from her husband.
Civil society organization Voice of the People has expressed concern over the presence of non-Ghanaian Fulanis on the electoral register, raising questions about any potential support from Samira Bawumia.
The organization has also highlighted issues related to the influx of nomadic Fulanis, which it claims have been facilitated by individuals in positions of authority.
Furthermore, the organization has drawn attention to the challenges faced by the Ashanti region, including destroyed farms, violence, and assaults attributed to these Fulanis. Samira Bawumia has not publicly addressed or condemned these alleged activities despite these issues.
Voice of the People has demanded clarity on who is enabling these Fulanis to evade legal consequences. They have also expressed concern over Samira Bawumia’s commitment to supporting the Fulanis, questioning whether this extends to endorsing their purported criminal activities.
In response to these allegations, a Fulani attendee named Abdulai Sadi disclosed claims of promises made to the Fulani community, including the potential occupation of Afram Plains and forest reserves, in exchange for their support for the NPP.
These assertions have sparked outrage among voters in the Asante Akyem and Kwahu areas, who have vowed repercussions against the NPP for perceived inaction.
The controversy surrounding Samira Bawumia’s statements and their implications for the electoral landscape underscores ongoing tensions and concerns over the role of tribal politics in Ghana’s political discourse.