- Bagbin tells Akufo-Addo to hand over power to election winner.
- Akufo-Addo's refusal to hand over power called an "empty boast".
- Power held by Akufo-Addo is a trust from the people.
- Bagbin stresses need for peaceful transition of power.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has stated that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will have no choice but to hand over power to the winner of the December 7 presidential election.
Bagbin emphasized that the 2024 elections are crucial in determining Ghana’s commitment to multiparty constitutional democracy.
He expressed shock at President Akufo-Addo’s recent statement that he would not hand over power to the opposition, even if they won the election.
Bagbin described the president’s comment as an “empty boast” and a clear indication of his intention to incite violence.
He reminded President Akufo-Addo that the power he wields is not his own, but rather a trust given to him by the people through their votes.
Bagbin emphasized that once the people have voted, the president’s power ceases, and he has no right to refuse handing over to the winner.
The speaker’s comments come after President Akufo-Addo stated that he has no confidence in opposition leader John Mahama to develop the country.
Akufo-Addo had said that he cannot hand over power to someone he has defeated twice and who is not happy with his work.
Bagbin’s response serves as a reminder to the president that he must respect the will of the people and hand over power peacefully.
The speaker’s statement highlights the importance of ensuring a smooth transition of power and upholding the principles of democracy in Ghana.
