You are here pulling knives and guns on each other, sake of politics – Tangoba Abayage cautions

In an Official Facebook Post on 11 October 2026, former Upper East Regional Minister, Tangoba Abayage, used a powerful image to send a message about political tolerance and coexistence. Her comments came after photographs emerged showing former Ashanti Regional Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Yandoh, warmly interacting with the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), during the naming ceremony of the minister’s newborn baby.

The photographs, which showed the two political figures shaking hands, sharing smiles, and interacting cordially, quickly attracted attention on social media. For many, the images served as a reminder that political rivalry does not necessarily have to translate into personal hostility.

Reacting to the development, Tangoba Abayage questioned why some ordinary supporters become consumed by political divisions to the extent of turning against one another. “You are here pulling knives and guns on each other, sake of politics,” she wrote, highlighting what she sees as the dangerous extremes some people are willing to go in defense of political parties.

According to her, the reality is that many politicians who are publicly perceived as fierce rivals often maintain cordial personal relationships behind the scenes. Despite belonging to opposing political traditions, Paul Yandoh attended the family event of Dr. Amoakohene and joined friends, relatives, and well-wishers in celebrating the occasion. The gesture demonstrated that mutual respect and friendship can exist even in highly competitive political environments.

The post has sparked conversations about the growing polarization within Ghana’s political landscape. Over the years, there have been numerous instances where supporters of rival parties have engaged in heated confrontations, online attacks, and sometimes violent clashes. Yet many of the leaders they passionately defend are often seen interacting peacefully at social functions, national events, and even private family gatherings.

Observers note that political competition is a normal feature of democracy, but allowing political differences to destroy personal relationships can have long-term consequences for national unity. The images shared by Tangoba Abayage appear to reinforce the idea that political affiliation should not prevent Ghanaians from respecting one another or living together peacefully.

For some commentators, the scene was particularly significant because it occurred in the Ashanti Region, often regarded as one of the most politically active regions in the country. The presence of a former senior NPP figure at the naming ceremony of a serving NDC regional minister demonstrated that personal relationships can rise above partisan considerations.

Tangoba’s message also serves as a warning against political intolerance. She suggested that while political parties may contest elections and disagree on policy matters, supporters should avoid turning politics into a source of hatred, violence, or division.

At its core, her post was not merely about a photograph. It was about reminding Ghanaians that political opponents are not necessarily enemies. The friendships, handshakes, and shared moments captured in the images showed a different side of politics, one that values respect, civility, and national cohesion above partisan rivalry.

As the country continues to navigate political competition, many readers interpreted the message as a call for maturity, urging supporters to emulate the tolerance displayed by leaders rather than allowing party loyalties to create unnecessary hostility in society.

Source: Tangoba Abayage, Official Facebook Post, 11 October, 2026.