Politics of Monday, 15 July 2024

Source: Koku Agbenaza, Contributor

2024 Elections: If you have 1 million ways to win, we also have two million ways of monitoring – Agbey tells Wontumi

James Agbey is a senior operative of the NDC James Agbey is a senior operative of the NDC

A senior operative of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), James Agbey, has raised concerns over statements from prominent political party figures that aim to bring about electoral tensions.

He argues that this rhetoric will only erode efforts made towards a peaceful election while affecting Ghana's electoral and democratic integrity.

Agbey specifically mentioned remarks made by Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Bosiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, last week when he emphasized his party's determination to secure victory in the 2024 elections by all means necessary.

“They can't stop us. In 2008 they delayed us. In the 2024 elections, NDC, you cannot stop us. We are winning. Tell the NDC that we have one million ways to win the 2024 elections and we are ready," Chairman Wontumi earlier said.

In response, Agbey when speaking with journalists expressed concerns over perceived threats of electoral manipulation and violence.

He also cited past incidents and emphasized the NDC's commitment to safeguarding democratic principles.

“If they claim to have one million ways to win the elections, we also have two million ways to monitor the elections while ensuring that the will of the people is reflected in the results,” he said.

The operative also underscored the importance of a fair electoral process free from intimidation or coercion.

"It is crucial that all parties uphold the sanctity of our democratic institutions, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring a transparent and peaceful electoral environment," he said.

James Agbey also expressed his confidence in the NDC's preparedness against any potential electoral disruptions, while calling for restraint and adherence to democratic norms from all political actors.

“The NPP stalwarts are talking tough because they care very little about the consequences of their actions. I recall how the NPP in recent times was accused of breeding and arming thugs as well as fake security operatives to harass and attack Ghanaians in the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-elections in 2020.

“We have seen how political violence has thrown the sociopolitical landscape of so many countries into total chaos. We are on a rescue mission to rescue Ghana from the claws of Akufo-Addo, and citizens are ready to bring an end to this opportunistic appropriation,” he added.

Agbey reiterated the need for political parties and their leaders to foster a climate of stability and national unity ahead and after the 2024 elections.

“With both major political parties voicing their commitment to democratic principles, observers also hope for constructive dialogue and cooperative efforts to ensure a credible electoral process that reflects the will of the Ghanaian people.

“As preparations for the 2024 elections unfold, stakeholders across the political spectrum are urged to prioritize dialogue and peaceful engagement, laying the groundwork for a democratic milestone in Ghana's political history,” he concluded.