As Ghana gears up for the December 2024 general elections, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has unequivocally dispelled any claims that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will resort to rigging to secure victory.

Speaking at the Ghana Bar Association’s Annual Conference in Kumasi, the President reiterated his party’s firm commitment to upholding democratic principles, highlighting that free, fair, and transparent elections are the cornerstone of any healthy democracy.

Akufo-Addo noted that democracy in Ghana has flourished over the years, allowing for greater political participation and representation.

 “The voices of women, youth, and marginalized groups, which were often silenced during the years of military rule, are now heard loud and clear,” he said. This vibrant and inclusive political landscape, he argued, is a testament to Ghana’s democratic evolution, with Parliament becoming more representative and civil society more engaged than ever before,” he added.

As the election season approaches, President Akufo-Addo stressed the importance of peaceful, fair, and transparent elections. 

“Elections are not merely a democratic ritual; they are the very lifeblood of our political system. They are the mechanism through which the people exercise their sovereign will, choose their leaders, and hold them accountable,” he added.

Addressing the allegations that the NPP could only win the 2024 elections through electoral manipulation, President Akufo-Addo categorically dismissed such claims. 

He stated that the NPP’s track record of governance, combined with the compelling vision of its flagbearer, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and running mate Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, will be enough to secure victory.

 “The NPP’s path to victory is through a robust defense of its exceptional, proven track record in office and the continuing modernization of Ghana’s future, championed by our excellent presidential candidate and his dynamic running mate,” Akufo-Addo remarked.

He emphasized that rigging is not part of the NPP’s DNA, describing the party as long-standing champions of multiparty democracy. He further dismissed accusations of electoral malpractice, saying that these were preemptive excuses by those who fear an NPP victory.

President Akufo-Addo emphasized that maintaining electoral integrity requires a collective commitment from all stakeholders involved in the electoral process. He urged political parties, the Electoral Commission (EC), security agencies, civil society, and the media to uphold the highest standards of transparency and fairness.

 “The integrity of the electoral process is the foundation upon which the legitimacy of government rests,” he said. 

The President further emphasized that when elections are free and transparent, the results are accepted by all parties, including those who lose.

In this regard, he placed a special responsibility on the Electoral Commission, calling on the body to act impartially and independently in overseeing the elections.

 He encouraged the EC to ensure that all logistical arrangements are in place and that any electoral disputes are resolved swiftly and transparently.

Akufo-Addo also stressed the importance of the EC remaining the sole authority responsible for declaring election results. 

He warned against political parties declaring results before the EC does so, noting that such actions could lead to confusion and misinformation.

 “The EC’s role as an impartial and independent body ensures that its results reflect the true will of the people, free from partisan influence,” the President noted.

Reflecting on the broader context of African elections, President Akufo-Addo cautioned against the dangers of elections marred by violence, irregularities, and lack of transparency.

 Such situations, he warned, can lead to disputed results and political instability. “We should learn from these experiences and ensure that Ghana does not ever fall into the same trap,” he said. 

The President reaffirmed that his government is committed to doing everything within its power to ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted peacefully, fairly, and transparently.

Acknowledging the concerns raised by some opposition voices about potential electoral misconduct, President Akufo-Addo reminded the audience that successive Electoral Commissioners, including Kwadwo Afari Gyan, Charlotte Osei, and the current commissioner, Jean Mensa, have all emphasized that rigging elections in Ghana is nearly impossible due to the robust systems in place. 

The President pointed out that those alleging NPP’s intent to rig the 2024 elections are likely preparing excuses in anticipation of a potential NPP victory.

President Akufo-Addo concluded by reaffirming the NPP’s unwavering commitment to democracy. 

He underscored the importance of democratic values such as the rule of law, accountability, and respect for differing opinions. 

“Our democracy is healthier than ever before, and we intend to protect and nurture it for future generations,” he stated.

With the 2024 elections on the horizon, President Akufo-Addo’s message is clear: the NPP will not resort to underhanded tactics to win. 

Instead, it will rely on its achievements in office and its vision for the future to convince the Ghanaian electorate. As the President put it, “The will of the people is paramount, and it is this will that will decide the outcome of the elections.”