The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has categorically refuted allegations alleging that it plans to dismiss new recruits from state security agencies if they win the upcoming 2024 elections. In a press release dated November 28, 2024, the NDC characterized these claims as unfounded and identified them as part of a disinformation campaign orchestrated by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). According to the NDC, the NPP is attempting to mislead the public, particularly the security personnel, to garner support in the forthcoming December 7 polls. The NDC insisted that such fabricated narratives should be regarded with the utmost contempt and emphasized that neither the party’s General Secretary nor its flagbearer is responsible for the false statements circulating online.
The NDC specifically called out the NPP for disseminating several fictitious stories claiming that the party would terminate the employment of new recruits upon taking power. One particular false claim alleges that the NDC would cancel enlistments and appointments within the state security services, suggesting a total overhaul of security personnel if they win the elections. The party denounced these publications as mere fabrications designed to manipulate voters’ perceptions and undermine the integrity of their campaign. Another notable example highlighted by the NDC includes a fabricated graphic from a fake news outlet, implying that the NDC intends to conduct a forensic audit of all appointments made in the security sector since the NPP assumed power in 2017.
The party’s press statement also addressed the recirculation of an old video in which the NDC’s National Communications Officer discussed violent incidents involving NPP members clad in military uniforms during the 2020 voter registration exercise. The NDC clarified that the comments were not directed at genuine security personnel but were in reference to specific individuals misusing military attire to perpetrate violence. The NDC reiterated its respect and acknowledgment of the professional and patriotic work performed by the country’s security forces, aiming to extinguish any notion that the party intends to take a punitive stance against security personnel.
Furthermore, the NDC strongly urged both the media and the public to be vigilant against the NPP’s alleged tactics of spreading fake news and disinformation as the election date approaches. The party asserted that, facing a likely defeat in the polls, the NPP is resorting to sensationalism to sway voter sentiment and distract from their record in power. The credibility of the security agencies is paramount for the NDC, which expressed its firm commitment to empowering and supporting them should they return to government.
The NDC further emphasized its intention to protect the integrity of security sector appointments and to promote collaboration between the government and security agencies. The party highlighted the necessity of maintaining trust between citizens and security personnel, expressing concern that misleading narratives could undermine public confidence in these bodies. In calling on the public to focus on factual discussions regarding the future of Ghana, the NDC seeks to position itself as a party committed to transparency and integrity.
Finally, the NDC called for an investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service into the sources of these false publications. The party expressed its anticipation that justice would be served and that accountability would be ensured for those perpetuating these misleading narratives. By taking a strong stand against disinformation, the NDC aims to reinforce its commitment to ethical campaigning while appealing to voters’ sensibilities as the crucial election day nears, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making in the democratic process.
