NPP Will Win 2024 Election On Our Record, Not Rigging – Akufo-Addo Assures Ghanaians

As Ghana approaches the December 2024 general elections, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has unequivocally dismissed allegations that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) intends to engage in electoral rigging to secure victory. Addressing the Ghana Bar Association’s Annual Conference in Kumasi, the President reiterated the NPP’s unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles, emphasizing that free, fair, and transparent elections are central to the country’s democratic process.

In his remarks, President Akufo-Addo reflected on Ghana’s democratic progress, noting how the country’s political system has evolved over the years to become more inclusive. He praised the growing participation of women, youth, and marginalized groups in national discourse, a sharp contrast to the era of military rule when such voices were often silenced. “Today, the voices of those once unheard are loud and clear,” the President noted, underscoring the country’s vibrant and diverse political landscape.

With the election season fast approaching, Akufo-Addo highlighted the importance of peaceful and credible elections, describing them as the lifeblood of Ghana’s democracy. “Elections are not just a democratic ritual; they are the mechanism through which the people exercise their sovereign will, choose their leaders, and hold them accountable,” he said.

Addressing accusations that the NPP could only win the 2024 elections through manipulation, President Akufo-Addo categorically dismissed such claims. He emphasized that the NPP’s path to victory lies in its track record of governance and the compelling leadership vision of its flagbearer, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and running mate Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh. “The NPP’s success will be based on our robust governance record and the vision of our excellent presidential candidate and his dynamic running mate,” he stated. Akufo-Addo further described the NPP as long-standing defenders of multiparty democracy, asserting that rigging elections is not part of the party’s DNA.

The President suggested that claims of electoral misconduct were preemptive excuses by opposition parties fearing an NPP victory. He added that maintaining electoral integrity is a shared responsibility involving all stakeholders, including political parties, the Electoral Commission (EC), security agencies, civil society, and the media. “The integrity of the electoral process is fundamental to the legitimacy of government,” Akufo-Addo said, urging all parties to commit to transparency and fairness in the conduct of elections.

Akufo-Addo also stressed the pivotal role of the Electoral Commission in ensuring free and fair elections. He called on the EC to act impartially and independently in overseeing the electoral process, ensuring all logistical arrangements are in place and that any electoral disputes are handled swiftly and transparently. The President reiterated that the EC is the sole authority responsible for declaring election results and cautioned against premature declarations by political parties, warning that such actions could create confusion and misinformation. “The EC’s impartiality ensures that its results reflect the true will of the people, free from partisan influence,” he emphasized.

Reflecting on challenges seen in other African elections, the President warned against the dangers of violence, irregularities, and lack of transparency, which have often led to political instability and disputed results elsewhere. “We should learn from these experiences and ensure that Ghana never falls into the same trap,” Akufo-Addo cautioned, underscoring the government’s commitment to a peaceful and transparent electoral process.

The President also acknowledged the concerns raised by some opposition groups regarding potential electoral misconduct, but he reminded the public that successive Electoral Commissioners, including Kwadwo Afari Gyan, Charlotte Osei, and the current commissioner, Jean Mensa, have all emphasized that rigging elections in Ghana is nearly impossible due to the robust systems in place.

Concluding his address, President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to democratic values, including the rule of law, accountability, and respect for differing opinions. “Our democracy is healthier than ever before, and we intend to protect and nurture it for future generations,” he said. He further emphasized that the outcome of the 2024 elections would be decided by the will of the people, not by underhanded tactics. “The will of the people is paramount, and it is this will that will determine the outcome of the elections,” the President stated.

As the December 2024 elections draw near, President Akufo-Addo’s message remains clear: the NPP will secure victory based on its achievements in office and its vision for the future, ensuring the democratic process remains intact and credible for all Ghanaians.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com