NDC Unveils Plan To Form Private Security Teams To Protect Ballot Boxes Ahead Of Elections
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced plans to establish private security teams tasked with safeguarding ballot boxes during the upcoming general elections. This strategic decision was made public by the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Andrews Nana Akwasi, during the NDC’s campaign launch held in the Manhyia North constituency on Sunday.
In a bold statement, Nana Akwasi emphasized that the NDC will not solely rely on official security forces, as party polling agents and branches will form their own teams to ensure the protection of votes. “We are sending a message to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that this time, our polling agents will be supported by our own security teams to safeguard the ballots,” he declared.
This move is driven by the party’s concerns regarding the credibility of the Electoral Commission (EC), which they feel has raised doubts about the fairness and transparency of the upcoming election process. Nana Akwasi made it clear that the NDC will not stand by if their efforts are threatened, asserting, “For any NPP members who attempt to disrupt activities on December 7, the NDC is ready, as we have little trust in the EC.”
The event, which saw a large turnout of enthusiastic NDC supporters dressed in party colors, showcased the party’s growing momentum in a traditionally NPP-dominated area.
Hamza Swallah, the NDC’s parliamentary candidate for Manhyia North, expressed optimism regarding the party’s chances of securing a win in the constituency for the first time. He attributed the growing support to dissatisfaction with the current NPP government, citing allegations of mismanagement and a lack of development in the region.
Former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Betty Mould Iddrisu, echoed these sentiments, predicting significant gains for the NDC in the Ashanti Region. She noted that the party’s rising popularity could result in victories in constituencies historically considered NPP strongholds.
The NDC’s plans to deploy private security teams reflect the party’s commitment to ensuring a transparent election process, as well as its resolve to challenge the ruling party in what is expected to be a closely contested election.