President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo robustly addressed concerns about possible electoral misconduct in the 2024 general election in a compelling speech at the Wesley Cathedral in Kumasi during the 13th Biennial/51st Annual Conference of the Methodist Church of Ghana.
As his presidency approaches its end this year, he assured Ghanaians of the government’s dedication to ensuring a transparent, equitable, and peaceful election.
He highlighted the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) steadfast adherence to democratic values and its longstanding commitment to fairness.
Addressing the gathered Methodist clergy and congregation, President Akufo-Addo proclaimed,
“The Akufo-Addo-led NPP Government is clear about its obligation and duty to ensure that the impending elections are conducted in an atmosphere of peace and security, in full transparency and respect for the electoral laws of our country.”
He emphasized that the security agencies are fully equipped to ensure the elections accurately represent the will of the Ghanaian people, free from violence or coercion.
Additionally, the President used the occasion to address and critique those, including certain clergy members, who have been voicing concerns about potential electoral misconduct.
He expressed disappointment in those who, instead of promoting peace, have been predicting “election rigging and Kenyan-style blood-letting.” In a direct rebuke, he stated, “They will be disappointed. The 2024 elections, like the previous ones we have held in Ghana in the 4th Republic, will be conducted peacefully and in total compliance with the laws of the country.”
Akufo-Addo underscored that the NPP, founded on the Danquah-Dombo-Busia political tradition, has always been a champion of democracy and a staunch opponent of authoritarian rule. “Rigging is not part of our DNA,” he asserted.
“We are eternal democrats; we trust and accept the freely expressed judgement of the people.” He cited his personal experience of accepting electoral results, referencing the outcomes of the 2008 and 2012 elections, which he accepted despite losing.
President Akufo-Addo underscored that the NPP’s approach for the upcoming elections is based on its governance record from the past eight years. He highlighted his administration’s accomplishments in various fields such as the economy, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and digital advancements.
He also commended Vice President and NPP presidential candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for offering a “dynamic vision for Ghana’s future” and challenged the Opposition Leader, whom he accused of avoiding debates with Bawumia.
In conclusion, President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his dedication to a peaceful transition of power, maintaining the same principles on which he was elected.
“I came out of a peaceful election, and I will leave in a peaceful election,” he affirmed, reinforcing his message of maintaining Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy on the African continent.
The President’s speech at the Methodist Conference served not only as a plea for unity and peace but also as a robust affirmation of confidence in Ghana’s democratic institutions and processes.