The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has raised serious concerns regarding the exclusion of Ghanaians living in Togo from participating in the upcoming 2024 general elections. At a rally held in Ziope, part of the Volta Region, NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for its management of the Representation of the People Amendment Law (ROPAL). He challenged the inconsistency in voter eligibility, pointing out that Ghanaians residing in countries as distant as the United States are afforded the opportunity to vote, while those living just across the border in Togo are not. This situation, he asserted, represents a form of discrimination that the NDC vehemently opposes.
Asiedu Nketia expressed that it is illogical for the NPP to encourage Ghanaian voters in America to participate while neglecting those in Togo, who should have the same rights to vote in their homeland. He highlighted the absurdity of categorizing Ghanaians living in Togo as migrants or foreigners, essentially denying them a voice in their own elections. Nketia’s remarks underscored a broader narrative that Ghanaians, regardless of their location, are entitled to participate in their country’s democratic processes, and he promised that the NDC would resist any attempts to disenfranchise them.
To mobilize support, the NDC Chairman urged the constituents to stay vigilant against any potential efforts by the NPP to bar individuals from crossing the border to vote. He predicted that the ruling party would employ various tactics to discourage participation from those living in neighboring countries, which he framed as an affront to democracy. This serves as an appeal for NDC supporters to protect their voting rights and ensure that all eligible voters can exercise their democratic right without interference from the NPP.
In addition to addressing the issue of voting rights, Nketia called for a rallying of support for the NDC in the upcoming elections. He emphasized the adverse effects that Ghanaians have experienced under the current administration, suggesting that the populace should weigh their options wisely. He characterized the choice before them as one between continuing under the perceived hardships associated with NPP governance or opting for change through NDC leadership. His comments serve to remind voters of the stakes involved in the forthcoming elections while positioning the NDC as the party that would alleviate their challenges.
Furthermore, the NDC’s parliamentary candidate for Agotime Ziope, Charles Agbeve, reiterated Nketia’s call for active participation in the elections, stressing the importance of achieving a significant turnout on December 7th. His objective is for the NDC to secure at least 25,000 votes in the constituency, a clear indication of the party’s strategic ambitions and hope for victory. Agbeve’s statements reflect a broader strategy of grassroots mobilization, indicating an awareness that electoral success hinges on collective effort and participation from the local populace.
In conclusion, the NDC is constructing a narrative focused on fairness and inclusivity as it approaches the general elections. By raising concerns about voter disenfranchisement, particularly among Ghanaians in Togo, and criticizing the ruling party’s policies, the NDC aims to galvanize support and mobilize its base. The emphasis on the adverse conditions under the NPP regime serves to position the NDC as a viable alternative, while calls for vigilance highlight the party’s commitment to protecting voter rights. As the elections approach, the NDC is keen to consolidate its support and ensure that Ghanaians, regardless of their geographical location, can partake in shaping the future of their country.
