NDC Council of Elders call for peaceful, credible elections  

The Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has called for peaceful, fair, and credible elections as the nation prepares to vote on December 7.  

The Council emphasised the need for vigilance, particularly in light of what it described as the ruling New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) “poor track record” in managing elections.  

Electoral malpractice  

Speaking to journalists in Accra yesterday (December 3), the Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu, said the NDC fully supported the National Election Security Task Force’s plan for maintaining peace.  

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

He also 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,” Alhaji Iddrisu stated.  

He criticised the Electoral Commission (EC) for logistical lapses, including the recent reprinting of ballot papers for special voting in the Western and Eastern regions, and urged the Commission to ensure transparency and accuracy in vote collation. 

Bad Governance 

Alhaji Iddrisu further criticised the Akufo-Addo-led administration, accusing it of economic mismanagement, corruption, and attempts to manipulate the electoral process.  

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

“The NPP government has impoverished Ghanaians for nearly eight years, yet suddenly finds money for projects and giveaways on the eve of elections. Ghanaians will teach them a lesson on December 7,” Alhaji Iddrisu said.  

Reaffirmation 

The Council 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.  

It called on party members and supporters to continue mobilising voters and ensuring a high turnout.  

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

The Council Chairman also lauded the enthusiasm and dedication shown by the NDC’s rank and file during the campaign, describing it as “inspiring.”  

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

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 concluded.