As the 2024 general elections approach in Ghana, political tensions are rising, with key figures from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) making statements that have sparked concern and debate.
Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, made headlines over the weekend when he spoke at a political rally and suggested that the NPP would do whatever it takes to retain power in the upcoming elections.
His comments, which have raised eyebrows, have some critics interpreting them as an indication of the party's willingness to use unconventional tactics to secure victory.
"Before I end my speech, I want to reiterate that whether the NDC likes it or not, they will never win the 2024 elections. They won't win. Go and check their records, they won't win. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is there to win elections.
"So, whichever means we will use to win the 2024 elections, we will use it. We are a political party. We have pastors, Imams, and traditionalists in the party. Ours is to win the elections. So, whichever means we will use to win the elections, we will use it," Bryan Acheampong reaffirmed.
In response, an operative of the NDC, James Agbey, called out the Minister of State for making such comments, which he believes will only heighten concerns among political opponents.
Agbey cautioned Bryan Acheampong against any attempts to undermine the democratic process and vowed that his party (NDC) would resist any efforts to destabilize the 2024 elections.
"Yes, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, is once again beating the war drums in anticipation of reliving the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election violence in the 2024 election."
"This latest threat from Bryan Acheampong comes after similar statements from Wontumi and other leading members of the NPP."
“The only conclusion we can easily draw from such unguarded rants and recklessness is that the NPP has an agenda to destabilize the country. We have duly noted their intention to disrupt the 2024 polls and plunge the country into chaos," Agbey stated.
He continued, "Every right-thinking Ghanaian knows that the aim of the NPP is to incite violence, instill fear in Ghanaians, discourage them from actively participating in the electoral process, thereby giving room for them to commit electoral malpractices (as seen in the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-elections and Techiman South in the 2020 election)."
He called on civil society and Ghanaians at large to remain vigilant.
“In fact, this brazen authoritarian course that has picked up steam in recent times needs to be condemned by civil society and the good people of Ghana.
“Clearly, the NPP is not preparing for elections, rather the party is actively planning to scheme itself into power in 2024 using violent uprising as a replacement for peaceful polls,” he stressed.
Agbey advocated for all political parties to focus on ensuring a peaceful and fair electoral process while urging political leaders to exercise restraint in their rhetoric and prioritize the nation's stability.