Kumasi, Ghana – April 30, 2025
A student from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is currently receiving medical treatment after being stabbed during a violent disturbance at the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) “Thank You Tour” event held at the Church of Pentecost in Bantama, Kumasi.
Gunshots and Commotion Amid Political Gathering
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening, April 29, 2025, during a scheduled event as part of the NPP’s post-primaries “Thank You Tour.” According to eyewitnesses, a group of students from Unity Hall’s Jama team at KNUST had been invited to perform at the event.
Tensions reportedly erupted after some unidentified men stormed the venue and allegedly seized money that had been offered to the student performers. An altercation ensued, leading to chaos that saw several attendees fleeing for safety as gunshots rang out.
“They were invited to sing. When they finished, they were given money. Some people came and snatched the money from them. That’s how the commotion started,” one eyewitness said.
Stabbing and Emergency Response
In the midst of the disorder, one student was stabbed by an unidentified assailant. The victim was immediately rushed to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), where he underwent minor surgery and remains in stable condition as of Wednesday morning.
Medical personnel at KATH confirmed that the student sustained a stab wound to the upper body but was not in critical condition. Hospital authorities also noted the swift response by emergency services and law enforcement.
Police Retrieve Bullet Casings, Begin Investigations
The Kumasi Central Police Command has since launched a full-scale investigation into the incident. Eight spent bullet casings were retrieved from the scene, heightening concern about the presence of firearms at political events.
Law enforcement officials have urged witnesses to cooperate with ongoing investigations, promising to bring all perpetrators to justice. No arrests have been confirmed yet.
Rising Concern Over Political Event Security
The stabbing has triggered widespread concern about the safety of participants at political events. Civil society organizations and campus groups have called for increased protection for young volunteers and performers who participate in such campaigns.
While no official statement has been released by NPP leadership regarding the incident, public pressure is mounting for party officials to condemn the violence and take steps to prevent future occurrences.
What’s Next?
As investigations continue, analysts warn that the violent clash could dent the party’s image and raise questions about internal cohesion ahead of the 2026 general elections.
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