Ahead of Ghana’s December 7 elections, the Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has reaffirmed the party’s commitment to a peaceful election, as well as its resolve to challenge the ruling government on issues of fairness and integrity.

In a statement to the media, Chairman of the Council Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu emphasized the urgency of ensuring free and fair elections, calling on all Ghanaians to remain vigilant and united as they head to the polls.

The Council, on behalf of the NDC, expressed concerns about the government’s commitment to maintaining peace, despite recent peace pacts signed by presidential candidates. The NDC questioned the sincerity of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), citing previous incidents of electoral violence in Ayawaso and Techiman during the 2019 and 2020 elections. The NDC leadership expressed fears that similar tactics might be employed again this year.

“The government is desperate; it knows its days are numbered, but it is doing everything to cling to power. While the demand for change is nationwide, there are concerns about the commitment of the Akufo Addo NPP government to ensure a clean and fair election, free from intimidation and flagrant abuse of incumbency.

“For almost eight years, the NPP government has fleeced and impoverished Ghanaians, stolen from the pensions of the aged, destroyed businesses, kept our roads in a deplorable state, and paid workers poorly with the excuse that the country is broke.

“Suddenly, we see the NPP government repairing roads on the eve of the elections and found money to distribute to voters whom they have kept hungry and deprived for years.

“These are all an insult to the intelligence of Ghanaians and a flagrant abuse of the democratic process. We are sure Ghanaians will teach them a lesson on December 7th. None of us in politics should take Ghanaians for granted.

While the party acknowledges the steps taken by the Ghana Police Service and the National Elections Task Force to ensure security, it demanded that the government stop the use of vigilante groups under the guise of national security to intimidate voters.

The party also urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to take its responsibilities seriously, after recent concerns arose over the mismanagement of ballot paper reprints for special voting in the Western and Eastern regions. The NDC expressed doubts about the transparency of the EC, particularly after issues arose in the 2020 election with shifting percentages and questionable vote tallies.

At the heart of the Council’s message was a call to action for the party’s members and supporters. They urged polling agents to uphold their duty with pride and commitment, as they are key to securing the future of Ghana’s youth and restoring good governance. The Council also recognized the tireless work of the NDC’s leadership in safeguarding the interests of the party and its supporters.

As Election Day draws near, the NDC is intensifying voter education and mobilizing support. “This is not the time for complacency,” they stated. “The price of success is eternal vigilance, and we must all be on the ground, ensuring that the will of the people is respected.”

With only days left before the polls, the NDC Council of Elders urged Ghanaians to remain resolute in their desire for change and to cast their ballots in favour of a future that prioritizes the people’s well-being.