Dr. Sofo Tanko Rashid Computer, the Deputy National Elections Director of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has dismissed President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s promise of ensuring a free and fair election, asserting that “we don’t use words to ensure free and fair elections.”
Speaking on ABC in the Morning, Dr. Computer argued that the President’s statement lacks sincerity, especially given his earlier comments about only handing over power to his Vice President.
He noted, “Nobody is to take him seriously,” citing the influence of diplomatic pressure on the President to retract such comments.
He further criticized the Electoral Commission (EC), alleging that it has become an extension of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
According to Dr. Computer, “the EC as it is constituted is virtually a wing of the NPP,” making it difficult for opposition parties to trust the commission to deliver a transparent electoral process.
He warned that the NDC would not tolerate any attempt to manipulate the upcoming general elections scheduled for December 7, 2024.
“If someone with a criminal mind tries to manipulate the process for the interest of his own party, we will not allow that one to go,” he emphasized.
The NDC, alongside other political parties and independent candidates, is demanding an independent forensic audit of the voter register.
This call comes after a Kumasi Magistrate Court ordered the EC to reverse about 580 names from the Manhyia South voter register due to alleged infractions.
Supporting the NDC’s demand, Alan Kyerematen, leader of the Movement for Change (M4C), has proposed the establishment of a Technical Working Group (TWG) to oversee the audit process from September 30 to October 11.
This TWG, he suggests, should include representatives of all candidates cleared to contest in the upcoming elections.
The NDC, after its massive “Enough is Enough” demonstration on September 23, met with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and other stakeholders to present its demand for a forensic audit of the voters register.
The party claims it has uncovered over 243,000 illegal names in the list of transferred voters during the provisional voter register exhibition in August, adding to its list of grievances.
