- NDC and NPP clash over Chairman Wontumi's election victory claims.
- NDC accuses NPP of planning to misuse security forces for electoral advantage.
- NDC pledges firm opposition to any undemocratic actions by NPP.
- Global concern grows over potential election-related violence in Ghana.
Accusations of electoral manipulation have ignited a tense exchange between Ghana’s political heavyweights, as James Agbey, a prominent figure within the National Democratic Congress (NDC), issued a stark warning to the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The confrontation escalated following remarks by Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, during the public presentation of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as the running mate for the NPP’s flagbearer. Chairman Wontumi brazenly asserted the NPP’s readiness to clinch victory in the upcoming 2024 general elections through any means necessary, prompting swift and fiery responses from the NDC.
In his address, Chairman Wontumi defiantly proclaimed, “They can’t stop us. 2008 they delayed us. 2024 elections, NDC you cannot stop us. We are winning. Tell the NDC that we have one million ways to win 2024 elections and we are ready.” This assertion was met with immediate opposition from James Agbey, who condemned the statement as a veiled threat to the democratic process in Ghana.
James Agbey, drawing on his experience as a former Director of Security Operations for the NDC in the Greater Accra Region, cautioned that the NPP’s rhetoric hinted at potential misuse of Ghana’s security forces to manipulate the electoral outcome. He highlighted past instances, including allegations of violence and intimidation during the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-elections and the 2020 general elections, which claimed innocent lives and cast a shadow over Ghana’s democratic credibility.
“This year’s election holds critical significance,” Agbey asserted in his statement. “We are on a rescue mission to safeguard Ghana from the grasp of Akufo-Addo’s administration. We stand prepared to halt any attempts at opportunistic usurpation.”
Agbey’s statement emphasized the NDC’s resolve to counter any undemocratic maneuvers by the NPP, asserting that they possess the means and determination to defend Ghana’s democratic integrity. “If they boast of one million ways to secure victory, we are equipped with two million strategies to thwart them,” he declared firmly, underscoring the NDC’s confidence in their electoral prospects.
The clash between the NPP and NDC has raised concerns about the potential for escalating tensions as the election approaches. Agbey warned against underestimating the consequences of political brinkmanship, cautioning that any attempt to subvert the will of the Ghanaian electorate would be met with resolute opposition.
“It is imperative that we restore dignity and respect to our electoral process,” Agbey emphasized. “The majority of Ghanaians are resolute in their demand for a change in leadership, and nothing will derail that momentum.”
The NDC operative’s statement concluded with a clear message directed at the NPP leadership, particularly Chairman Wontumi and his associates: “Any collusion with rogue elements within the security forces to disrupt the 2024 polls will be met with swift and decisive action. We will not hesitate to defend our democracy.”
As tensions mount between Ghana’s leading political factions, observers are closely monitoring developments amid fears of potential electoral violence and irregularities. The international community has been urged to remain vigilant and to support Ghana in ensuring a peaceful and transparent electoral process in 2024.
