The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has made a firm statement about the upcoming December 7 general elections in Ghana. Speaking in an exclusive interview with the BBC, Mahama emphasized that he would only accept the election results if the process is transparent, credible, and fair. His comments have sparked widespread attention as the country heads to the polls in just a few days.
Mahama, who served as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017, expressed concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. He pointed out that for Ghana’s democracy to thrive, it is essential to ensure the elections are free from violence, manipulation, and irregularities. His remarks come amid growing worries about potential threats to a peaceful and credible election.
According to Mahama, certain actions, such as ballot snatching, voter intimidation, and the misuse of security forces, could undermine the credibility of the election. He firmly stated that he would not accept any result tainted by such actions. “If on election day, there is widespread ballot snatching, beating of people, the military moving in and intimidating people, and thugs rampaging, you want me to accept that result? It will depend on the transparency and fairness of the process,” he said.
This statement by Mahama highlights the stakes in the upcoming elections, which are expected to be closely contested between the NDC and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). As a leading political figure, Mahama’s words carry significant weight and have drawn both support and criticism from different quarters.
Concerns About Electoral Fairness
Mahama’s concerns are not without precedent. In recent years, there have been instances in Ghana where elections were marred by allegations of irregularities. These include reports of ballot boxes being tampered with, voter suppression, and even violence at polling stations. Such issues have raised questions about whether the electoral system is robust enough to ensure free and fair elections.
For Mahama, ensuring the integrity of the process is non-negotiable. He believes that a flawed election would not only harm Ghana’s democracy but could also lead to instability and a lack of trust in the system. “Elections are the foundation of democracy,” he said. “If people feel their voices are not being heard because the process is not fair, it weakens the entire system.”
To address these concerns, Mahama has called for strict measures to prevent irregularities. He urged the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and political parties to work together to ensure a peaceful and transparent process.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
In his interview, Mahama stressed the importance of transparency at every stage of the election. He called on the Electoral Commission to be impartial and ensure that the voting process is conducted openly. He also warned against the misuse of security forces to intimidate voters or disrupt polling activities.
“Transparency is key,” Mahama said. “If people see that the process is fair, they will accept the outcome, even if their candidate does not win. But if there are doubts, it creates tension and division.”
He also urged voters to remain vigilant and report any incidents of misconduct during the election. According to him, citizens have a role to play in safeguarding the democratic process by holding officials accountable.
The Stakes in the December 7 Election
The upcoming election is one of the most significant in Ghana’s recent history. It pits Mahama against the incumbent president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who is seeking a second term. Both candidates have promised to address the country’s pressing issues, including economic growth, job creation, and education.
For Mahama, this election represents an opportunity to return to power and implement his vision for Ghana. He has campaigned on a platform of inclusive development, promising to tackle inequality and improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
However, the contest has been highly competitive, with both parties accusing each other of misconduct. The political atmosphere has been tense, and there are fears that this could escalate as election day approaches.
A Message of Hope and Unity
Despite his concerns, Mahama remains hopeful that the election can be conducted peacefully and fairly. He called on Ghanaians to come together and put the nation’s interests above partisan politics. “This election is not just about me or any political party,” he said. “It’s about the future of our country. Let’s work together to protect our democracy and ensure that every vote counts.”
As Ghana prepares to vote, Mahama’s remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining peace and upholding democratic principles. His call for transparency and fairness resonates with many Ghanaians who share his desire for a credible election.
With just two days to go, all eyes are on Ghana as the nation takes another step in its democratic journey. The outcome of the election will not only shape the country’s future but also serve as a test of its commitment to democracy. Whatever the result, one thing is clear: the integrity of the process will be the ultimate measure of success.
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