Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), recently issued a stern warning to the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) regarding their potential influence on the outcomes of the upcoming December 7 general elections. Gbande emphasized that the NDC would not stand by and allow any attempts to replicate the alleged misconduct mistakenly executed by the NPP during the 2020 elections. His comments reflect a deep-seated resolve within the NDC to remain vigilant this electoral season, underscoring their commitment to safeguarding the will of the people, particularly in light of the heightened political tensions surrounding the elections.
Gbande articulated that should there be any attempts to undermine the electoral process through coercive actions, the NDC would respond decisively, reiterating their commitment to democracy and the electoral process. Despite advocating for a peaceful electoral environment, he underscored the party’s unwillingness to solely rely on the Electoral Commission for fair outcomes. He criticized the commission, arguing that it had previously failed to demonstrate impartiality, thereby raising significant concerns about its role in upcoming elections. This skepticism reflects a broader sentiment within the NDC that calls into question the integrity of electoral management bodies in Ghana.
Highlighting the leadership of former President John Dramani Mahama, Gbande reaffirmed the NDC’s commitment to ensuring a fair electoral process, emphasizing that their guiding principle remains “one-man-one-vote.” This principle is foundational for the NDC, as it encapsulates their view on the importance of individual voting rights and the need for equity in the electoral framework. Gbande further stressed that the NDC’s efforts would hinge on achieving justice and fairness, showcasing a dedication towards fostering a democratically healthy environment even as they gear up for potential electoral confrontations.
The Deputy General Secretary also made clear that the NDC opposes any military involvement in the election process, cautioning against the potential repercussions of using security forces to sway electoral outcomes. This statement positions the NDC against the militarization of elections, advocating instead for a transparent counting and verification process at the polling stations. Unlike in the 2020 elections, where legal avenues were sought for grievance resolution, Gbande indicated a strategic shift; the NDC is now focusing on ensuring accuracy at the grassroots level, presenting a proactive rather than reactive approach to the upcoming elections.
This proactive stance, however, comes amid recent developments where the NDC opted not to endorse a peace accord proposed by the National Peace Council. Gbande’s reasoning asserts that the conditions for peace are still unmet, particularly regarding the unresolved issues stemming from the violence and loss of life that marred the 2020 electoral processes. His comments reflect a broader challenge facing the NDC in reconciling their commitment to peace with the need for accountability and justice for those affected during prior elections.
In summary, Mustapha Gbande’s statements reveal the NDC’s heightened alertness as they prepare for the December elections. They evoke a narrative of resilience in the face of perceived electoral injustice, presenting a framework where the principles of fairness, justice, and grassroots equity guide their strategies. By emphasizing vigilance and an unwavering commitment to the electoral rights of Ghanaians, the NDC aims to foster confidence among its supporters while signaling its readiness to confront any potential electoral misconduct head-on. As tensions escalate in the pre-election period, the NDC’s positions will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape in Ghana leading up to the elections.
