Election Rigging not Part of NPP’s DNA – Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has addressed worries regarding possible electoral misconduct and election rigging in the upcoming 2024 general elections.

With his term set to conclude on January 6 next year, President Nana Addo reassured Ghanaians of the government’s dedication to ensuring a transparent, fair, and peaceful no rigging election process. He emphasized the ruling New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) commitment to democratic principles and a history of fair play.

He made these remarks during an address at the Wesley Cathedral in Kumasi, as part of the 13th Biennial/51st Annual Conference of the Methodist Church of Ghana.

In front of an audience of Methodist clergy and congregants, President Akufo-Addo stated, “The Akufo-Addo-led NPP Government is fully aware of its obligation to ensure that the upcoming elections are held in a peaceful and secure environment, with complete transparency and adherence to our electoral laws, rigging is not part of us.” He pointed out that the security agencies are ready to fulfil their roles in ensuring that the elections reflect the true will of the Ghanaian people, free from violence or intimidation.

The President took the chance to address concerns about electoral fraud, and rigging of results, particularly from some clergy members. He expressed his disappointment in those who, rather than fostering peace, have been warning of “election rigging and Kenyan-style bloodshed.” In a pointed response, he declared, “They will be disappointed. The 2024 elections, like those we have previously conducted in Ghana during the 4th Republic, will be held peacefully and in full accordance with the laws of our nation.”
Akufo-Addo highlighted that the NPP, rooted in the Danquah-Dombo-Busia political tradition, has consistently championed democracy and opposed authoritarianism. “Rigging is not in our DNA,” he stated firmly. “We are lifelong democrats; we believe in and respect the will of the people.” He referenced his own experiences with electoral outcomes, recalling how he accepted the results of the 2008 and 2012 elections, even when he did not win.

ALSO READ: Economic Fighters League Urges Ghanaians to Dismantle NDC-NPP Duopoly

President Akufo-Addo also stressed that the NPP’s approach for the upcoming elections is based on its governance record over the last eight years. He expressed pride in his administration’s accomplishments in various areas, such as the economy, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and digitization. He commended the Vice President and the NPP’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for offering an “exciting vision for Ghana’s future,” while challenging the Opposition Leader, whom he accused of being reluctant to debate Bawumia.

In conclusion, President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his dedication to leaving office peacefully, just as he was elected. “I came out of a peaceful election, and I will leave in a peaceful election,” he stated, reinforcing his commitment to upholding Ghana’s status as a model of democracy in Africa.

The President’s speech at the Methodist Conference was more than just a plea for unity and peace; it was a powerful affirmation of faith in Ghana’s democratic institutions and processes. With the December elections approaching, President Akufo-Addo’s comments highlight the crucial need to uphold democratic values and guarantee that the people’s voice is heard.