The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed President Akufo-Addo’s commitment to a free and fair election, describing his promise as empty rhetoric.
Speaking on ABC IN THE MORNING on Thursday, Dr. Sofo Tanko Rashid Computer, Deputy National Elections Director of the NDC, Computer stressed that “nobody is to take him (President) serious.”
Dr. Tanko argued that despite his public assurances, President Akufo-Addo’s actions suggest a desire to hold onto power, citing his previous statements about only handing over to his Vice President.
“He does not own the country,” a member of the party lashed out, referencing concerns raised by diplomatic forces over the President’s alleged remarks.
Highlighting ongoing issues with the Electoral Commission (EC), the he accused the President of addressing “his own political appointees” when speaking about ensuring electoral transparency.
The party believes that the current EC structure lacks neutrality, as key members are viewed as “party hardcore fanatics,” raising doubts about their ability to conduct a credible election.
“You can’t bring your party’s hardcore fanatics as Commissioners and expect us to trust them to deliver a free and fair election,” the party reiterated.
Backing its demand for a forensic audit of the voter register, the NDC pointed to recent incidents, including the Ashanti Region EC’s reversal of 580 names from the Manhyia South register following a court order.
This ruling came after the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Constituency identified infractions in the voter transfer exercise.
“The process is murky, and if someone with a criminal mind tries to manipulate it, we (NDC) will not allow that to happen,” the party warned, stressing that a fair electoral process is a shared responsibility.
Amidst these developments, Alan Kyerematen, leader of the Movement for Change (M4C), has also thrown his weight behind calls for a forensic audit.
Kyerematen proposed a high-level Technical Working Group (TWG) chaired by the EC and comprising representatives of contesting candidates and data management experts.
Meanwhile, disqualified presidential aspirant, Samuel Apea-Danquah, is pushing for a peaceful resolution with the EC, demanding clarity on the reasons behind his disqualification.
The NDC, in its continued efforts, met with Civil Society Organizations and other stakeholders to reiterate its call for an independent audit of the register, insisting that electoral integrity must be upheld.
