As Ghana gears up for the highly anticipated December 7 elections, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is making its position clear about the importance of restoring democracy. The party’s Council of Elders has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a peaceful election process while also raising concerns about fairness, integrity, and the potential for manipulation in the upcoming polls.
In a recent statement, Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu, Chairman of the NDC Council of Elders, underscored the critical importance of free and fair elections, urging all Ghanaians to stay vigilant and united as they prepare to cast their votes. The Council expressed serious concerns over the conduct of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), questioning its commitment to upholding peace and fairness.
The NDC leadership pointed to troubling precedents of electoral violence, notably in Ayawaso and Techiman during the 2019 and 2020 elections. These incidents, according to the NDC, raise legitimate fears that similar tactics might be used again to undermine the democratic process in this year’s elections.
"The government is desperate," the NDC statement read. "It knows its time is running out, but it will do everything possible to cling to power. There is a growing national call for change, yet we remain deeply concerned about the Akufo-Addo government’s commitment to holding a clean, fair, and peaceful election, free from intimidation and abuse of incumbency."
The NDC also accused the government of showing a lack of regard for the welfare of Ghanaians. For years, the NPP has been criticized for mismanaging public resources, impoverishing citizens, neglecting infrastructure, and failing to properly compensate workers, all while claiming that the nation was broke. However, with the election season approaching, the NPP has suddenly found funds to repair roads and distribute money to voters, actions that the NDC believes are merely attempts to manipulate the electorate.
“These are nothing but insults to the intelligence of Ghanaians and a blatant abuse of the democratic process,” the statement continued. “The people of Ghana will not forget how they have been treated and will teach the NPP a lesson at the polls.”
While the NDC acknowledged the efforts of the Ghana Police Service and the National Elections Task Force to ensure security, the party also expressed deep concerns about the use of vigilante groups under the guise of national security. The NDC demanded that the government cease using such groups to intimidate voters, as this tactic has previously contributed to violence and unrest during elections.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has also come under scrutiny. The NDC raised alarms over the recent mismanagement of ballot paper reprints for special voting in the Western and Eastern regions, questioning the transparency of the EC. The party reminded the public of the issues that arose during the 2020 elections, such as discrepancies in vote tallies and shifting percentages, which undermined the credibility of the electoral process.
The NDC’s Council of Elders called on its members, supporters, and polling agents to remain committed to the cause and play a crucial role in ensuring a fair election. “Our polling agents are vital to securing a future that guarantees good governance and prioritizes the needs of the people,” the statement emphasized. The party also praised the leadership of the NDC for their tireless efforts in safeguarding the interests of the party and its supporters.
With just days to go before the elections, the NDC is intensifying its voter education efforts and mobilizing support across the country. “Now is not the time for complacency,” the Council said. “Success requires eternal vigilance, and we must be on the ground ensuring that the will of the people is respected.”
The NDC’s message to Ghanaians is clear: they must stay united and resolute in their desire for change. As election day approaches, the party urges all Ghanaians to vote for a future that prioritizes the well-being of the people, ensuring that the values of democracy are upheld and that the election process remains fair, transparent, and free from manipulation.
With tensions running high as the December 7 elections near, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to these criticisms and whether the NPP will succeed in holding on to power or if the NDC will capitalize on the widespread desire for change in the country. Whatever the outcome, the NDC has made it clear that the battle to restore democracy is far from over, and it is determined to ensure that the voices of the people are heard at the polls.
As the election draws closer, both the NDC and the NPP will continue their campaigns, hoping to secure the trust of Ghanaians. The coming days will be crucial, and all eyes will be on the electoral process to ensure that it is conducted with the fairness and integrity that every Ghanaian deserves.
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