Bryan Acheampong, the Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi, has made a bold declaration that the Eastern Region is effectively under lockdown as the nation approaches the 2024 elections. His remarks, delivered to a crowd of enthusiastic New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters at the forecourt of the Abetifi Palace, underscored the party’s commitment to securing victory in the upcoming polls.
Acheampong’s statement came on the heels of a party-organized walk on Saturday, where thousands of party faithful gathered to demonstrate solidarity and readiness for the elections. Addressing the crowd, he emphasized that the NPP’s anticipated victory was non-negotiable and warned against any attempts to disrupt the electoral process or contest the outcome.
“In 2022, I said the NPP would win the elections. In 2023, I said the NPP would win the elections. In 2024, everything shows that the NPP will win the elections. We will vote peacefully, we will count peacefully, and we will declare the NPP winner peacefully,” Acheampong declared, receiving resounding applause from the audience.
He went further to issue a stern warning to individuals or groups who might consider challenging the party’s success, stating, “Anyone who dares to ruin the NPP’s win will do so at their peril. We will deal with you.”
Acheampong’s remarks also shed light on the party’s extensive preparations leading up to the elections. He highlighted the strategic efforts that had been put in place to ensure a smooth and effective campaign across the region, a key stronghold for the NPP.
“I promise you, we have campaigned very well because we have put things in place. The Eastern Region is under lockdown, and whoever comes here will be given a showdown. If you dare misbehave in the Eastern Region, we will give you a showdown,” Acheampong added, further energizing the gathered supporters.
The minister’s comments have drawn significant attention, particularly as the Eastern Region remains a crucial battleground in Ghanaian politics. As a traditional stronghold of the NPP, the party’s focus on securing an overwhelming victory in the region is seen as a key strategy for retaining power.
Acheampong’s declaration of a “lockdown” has sparked discussions about the potential implications for the upcoming elections. While his statement reflects the party’s confidence, it also raises questions about the tone and approach to political competition as the elections draw nearer.
The minister’s address is part of a broader series of activities by the NPP aimed at consolidating its base and mobilizing supporters ahead of the polls. The party has been ramping up its campaign efforts across the country, with senior officials, including Bryan Acheampong, taking center stage in rallying support and emphasizing the achievements of the current government.
Acheampong’s remarks have also drawn mixed reactions from the public and political commentators. Supporters of the NPP have lauded his confidence and assertiveness, viewing it as a reflection of the party’s readiness to secure victory. On the other hand, critics have raised concerns about the language used, cautioning against any rhetoric that could inflame tensions or undermine the spirit of democratic competition.
As the nation gears up for the 2024 elections, the stakes are higher than ever, with political parties leaving no stone unturned in their quest to win the trust of voters. The NPP, under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is aiming to secure a third consecutive term in office, a feat that would mark a historic achievement for the party.
The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), led by former President John Dramani Mahama, is also intensifying its campaign efforts, presenting itself as the better alternative to address the country’s challenges. This sets the stage for a fiercely contested election, with both parties vying to win over undecided voters and secure dominance in key regions.
Acheampong’s declaration of a locked Eastern Region signifies the NPP’s determination to maintain its hold on the region and counter any opposition efforts to gain ground. The minister’s strong words are likely to resonate with the party’s base, galvanizing supporters to actively participate in the campaign and ensure a high voter turnout on election day.
At the same time, stakeholders in Ghana’s democratic process have called for political leaders to prioritize unity and avoid actions or statements that could heighten tensions. The Electoral Commission, civil society organizations, and international observers are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring a peaceful and transparent election.
Bryan Acheampong’s comments, while reflective of the competitive nature of Ghanaian politics, serve as a reminder of the need for all political actors to uphold the principles of democracy and foster an environment conducive to free and fair elections.
As the campaign season intensifies, all eyes will be on the Eastern Region and other critical areas to see how the political landscape evolves in the weeks leading up to the polls. For now, the NPP’s message is clear: they are confident, prepared, and ready to defend their position as Ghana’s ruling party.
