Prioritise transparency, fairness • NDC Council of Elders urges EC

The Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to prioritise transparency and fairness in all electoral processes as Ghanaians go to the polls on Saturday, December 7, 2024.

It stated that the credibility of the elections hinged on the neutrality and professionalism of the EC hence the need for the EC to remain impartial.

At a press conference last Tuesday, the chairman of the Council, Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu, noted that any perception of bias could erode confidence in the election results and lead to unnecessary tension.

Integrity

He called on all electoral officials to carry out their duties with integrity and dedication to Ghana’s democratic ideals.

"We urge the Electoral Commission to get its act together if they are to ensure free, fair and credible elections.”

"It isn't easy for the public to accept its assurance for robust and transparent elections when day in and day out you hear and read of stories suggesting poor management on its part, the latest being the last-minute decision to reprint ballot papers for Special voting in the Western and Eastern regions of Ghana."

He stressed the crucial role of the EC in safeguarding Ghana’s democratic principles hence the importance of conducting the elections in a free, fair and peaceful manner.

Alhaji Iddrisu called on Ghanaians to protect their votes and document any acts of electoral malpractice.

“We urge the electorate to consider themselves guardians of the ballot they cast. Let us all remain alert, be on the lookout for troublemakers, and wherever possible, put them on record,” he stated.

Reaffirmation

He reaffirmed the NDC’s commitment to peace and praised the party’s presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, as a leader with the vision and integrity to address the nation’s challenges. 

“John Mahama is a reassuring personality with a passion for what works in the broader national interest. With John, success means lifting every Ghanaian,” he added.

Alhaji Iddrisu lauded the enthusiasm and dedication shown by the rank and file of the NDC during the campaign, describing it as “inspiring.” 

He, however, urged the polling agents to remain steadfast in their duties to ensure the party’s victory.

Electoral malpractice

Alhaji Iddrisu said the NDC fully supported the National Elections Task Force’s plan for maintaining peace.

He, however, urged the government to avoid using vigilante groups or security forces to intimidate voters.

Alhaji Iddrisu further took a swipe at the Akufo-Addo-led administration, accusing it of economic mismanagement, corruption and attempts to manipulate the election process.

He described the government’s last-minute road rehabilitation and financial handouts as “an insult to the intelligence of Ghanaians”.

He described the upcoming election as a defining moment for the country’s democracy, urging citizens to reject what he called eight years of impunity, corruption, greed and nepotism, and vote for change.

“No force can stand against the people’s might when they decide enough is enough. Let us win the election for Ghana together,” Alhaji Iddrisu.