The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a stern warning to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo-Dampare, and other security leaders, holding them accountable for any loss of lives during the 2024 general elections.
The party emphasized the critical importance of ensuring the safety of citizens throughout the electoral process, urging the security agencies to adopt effective measures to protect lives.
During a press conference on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, the National Communications Officer of the NDC, Sammy Gyamfi, addressed the media, delivering a message of caution to the country’s security apparatus. He stressed that elections should be conducted peacefully without any casualties, as the fundamental principle of democratic processes is to count votes, not claim lives.
“The NDC and by extension, the people of Ghana will hold the IGP, the Chief of Defence Staff, and our security heads responsible for the loss of a single life in the 2024 general elections,” Gyamfi declared. “Elections are about counting heads and not cutting heads. No person must lose his or her life on the altar of elections.”
This strong statement reflects the NDC’s commitment to a peaceful electoral process and its concern over the potential for violence during the elections. In recent years, Ghana has experienced tensions and isolated incidents of violence during elections, prompting calls from various political stakeholders for improved security measures to safeguard voters and election officials.
Sammy Gyamfi further highlighted the responsibility of the security agencies to maintain law and order during the elections. He called on Dr. Akuffo-Dampare and other security chiefs to take proactive steps to prevent any incidents that could lead to the loss of life or property. The NDC believes that the credibility of Ghana’s electoral process hinges on the ability of the security agencies to ensure a safe and transparent environment for voters to exercise their democratic rights.
The party also expressed confidence in its chances of success in the 2024 elections, predicting that Ghanaians would choose their candidate, John Dramani Mahama, over the incumbent government. Gyamfi reiterated the NDC’s belief in Mahama’s leadership qualities, contrasting them with what he described as the shortcomings of the current administration.
“We have no doubt that Ghanaians will choose an honest leader who upholds the virtue of truth over one who is completely allergic to truth,” he stated. This remark underscores the NDC’s narrative that Mahama represents integrity and reliability, qualities they argue are lacking in the current leadership.
The 2024 general elections are expected to be a fiercely contested battle between the NDC, led by former President Mahama, and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer. Both parties have already begun laying the groundwork for their campaigns, seeking to secure the trust and support of Ghanaians.
For the NDC, the stakes are particularly high as they aim to unseat the NPP, which has been in power since 2017. The party has identified key issues, including governance, economic management, and social justice, as central themes of their campaign. In addition, the NDC has been vocal about its concerns regarding the fairness and transparency of the electoral process.
At the press conference, Gyamfi urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant and to hold the government and security agencies accountable for ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election. He emphasized that the NDC would not tolerate any attempts to undermine the democratic process or to intimidate voters.
The party’s call for accountability extends beyond the security agencies to all stakeholders involved in the electoral process. Gyamfi called on civil society organizations, international observers, and the media to play their roles in promoting transparency and ensuring that the elections are conducted in accordance with democratic principles.
The NDC’s position reflects the broader concerns of many Ghanaians who have witnessed political violence in the past. As the elections draw closer, the party’s insistence on accountability and safety serves as a reminder of the need for a collective effort to uphold the country’s democratic values.
While addressing questions from journalists, Gyamfi also touched on the NDC’s readiness for the elections. He expressed optimism about the party’s ability to mobilize support across the country and to deliver a compelling message to voters. According to him, the NDC’s track record of governance and its commitment to addressing the challenges facing Ghanaians would resonate with the electorate.
The press conference concluded with a reiteration of the NDC’s commitment to peaceful elections and a call to action for all Ghanaians to participate actively in the democratic process. Gyamfi urged citizens to vote responsibly and to reject any form of violence or intimidation.
As the countdown to the 2024 elections continues, the spotlight will remain on Ghana’s security agencies and their ability to ensure a safe and peaceful electoral process. The NDC’s warning to the IGP and other security heads underscores the importance of their role in upholding the integrity of the elections and protecting the lives of all Ghanaians.
The upcoming elections represent a critical moment for Ghana’s democracy. With both major political parties gearing up for a heated contest, the country’s commitment to peace and stability will be tested. For the NDC, the emphasis on accountability and safety is not just a political strategy but a reflection of the party’s vision for a better Ghana where elections are free from fear and violence.
The NDC’s message is clear: the lives and safety of Ghanaians must take precedence over political ambitions, and the country’s leaders must rise to the challenge of delivering a peaceful and credible election in 2024.
