By Stanley Kwabla Arku
Member of Parliament for Juaboso Constituency in the Western North Region Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has voiced grave concerns over what he describes as deliberate efforts by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to manipulate the upcoming 2024 elections in the constituency. Speaking at a press briefing, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) legislator accused the NPP of using state institutions and questionable tactics to rig the elections, calling on constituents to resist any attempts to subvert their democratic rights.
Hon. Akandoh alleged that the NPP is actively using state institutions to influence the electoral process in Juaboso, highlighting what he called a coordinated effort to tilt the scales in their favor. He specifically criticized the Ghana Police Service and the Electoral Commission (EC) for actions he believes compromise the integrity of the polls.
He accused the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, of orchestrating the sudden transfer of the Juaboso District Police Commander just eight days before the elections. According to Hon. Akandoh, the move is part of a broader strategy to weaken the security setup in NDC strongholds and pave the way for voter intimidation.
He further claimed that the NPP plans to deploy additional security personnel to Juaboso’s border areas, with the alleged intent to intimidate eligible voters, particularly in NDC-dominated zones.
“No amount of intimidation or manipulation will save the NPP in the upcoming polls,” Akandoh declared. “The people of Juaboso are peaceful, but they will resist any attempt to rig this election.”
In addition to the alleged security manipulations, Hon. Akandoh criticized the Electoral Commission for its recent actions in the constituency. He highlighted the abrupt transfer of the Juaboso District Election Chief Officer, describing the timing as “highly suspicious.” The MP accused the EC of replacing key election officials with individuals he referred to as “party boys,” claiming these appointees have affiliations with the NPP that undermine their impartiality.
“These actions by the Electoral Commission raise serious questions about its commitment to conducting free and fair elections,” Hon. Akandoh said. “Replacing experienced officials with party loyalists is a blatant attempt to compromise the process.”
Despite his concerns, Hon. Akandoh assured the people of Juaboso of the NDC’s preparedness to resist any form of electoral malpractice. He emphasized the resilience and vigilance of the constituency, urging residents to remain calm yet firm in protecting their democratic rights.
“The people of Juaboso have always stood for peace and justice. We will not allow anyone to undermine our sovereignty or the sanctity of the ballot box,” he said.