The National Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), George Opare-Addo, has accused religious groups and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Ghana of remaining silent in the face of widespread corruption allegations under President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration.

Opare-Addo voiced these concerns during the launch of the NDC Youth Manifesto on Monday, August 12, 2024, in Accra. Opare-Addo did not mince words as he took aim at the perceived selective activism of religious bodies and CSOs, who he claimed were vocal critics of the NDC in the past.

“Today, these men of God, religious groups, and civil society organizations have suddenly disappeared and become deaf, dumb, and blind to the wanton acts of corruption, state capture, and untold hardship unleashed on Ghanaians by the Bawumia and Akufo-Addo administration.”
George Opare-Addo, National Youth Organizer of the NDC

Opare-Addo remarks underscored the growing frustration within the opposition party over what they see as a lack of accountability from key societal institutions that were once active in demanding transparency and integrity from political leaders.

Opare-Addo’s comments come amid a series of corruption allegations that have dogged the Akufo-Addo administration. Critics have pointed to various scandals, including those involving the procurement of goods and services during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the controversial Agyapa Royalties deal, which has drawn widespread condemnation from opposition parties and anti-corruption watchdogs.

The NDC has consistently accused the NPP of shielding corrupt officials from prosecution, a charge the government has repeatedly denied. Opare-Addo’s remarks highlight the NDC’s belief that there is a double standard in how corruption is addressed, depending on which political party is in power.

The NDC Youth Organizer’s criticisms of religious groups and CSOs reflect a broader concern within the party about the role of these institutions in Ghanaian politics. In the run-up to the 2016 and 2020 general elections, several prominent clergymen and civil society leaders were vocal in their criticism of the then-ruling NDC, calling for change and advocating for the election of the NPP.

However, according to Opare-Addo, these same voices have been conspicuously silent as the Akufo-Addo administration has faced its own corruption scandals. This perceived silence, he argues, undermines the credibility of these institutions and raises questions about their impartiality.

In his address, Opare-Addo also took the opportunity to commend former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC’s flagbearer for the 2024 elections, following his exoneration by the Special Prosecutor in the long-running Airbus SE scandal.

The case, which involved allegations of bribery in the sale of aircraft to Ghana during Mahama’s presidency, had been a significant source of controversy.

“Mr. President, we know the many unsubstantiated allegations against you and the NDC. We knew how it weighed on you, but we are grateful to God that you have been vindicated with time.”
George Opare-Addo, National Youth Organizer of the NDC

Opare-Addo lauded former President Mahama for his resilience in the face of what the NDC views as politically motivated accusations.

The NDC has seized upon the exoneration as evidence of their commitment to integrity and as a counterpoint to the corruption allegations currently facing the NPP government.

Emphasis on Peaceful Revolution Through Voting

George Opare-Addo, National Youth Organizer of the NDC

Opare-Addo’s speech also touched on the NDC’s strategy for the 2024 general elections, describing it as a “revolution without a gun.” He emphasized that the youth of the NDC would be at the forefront of this electoral battle, using the power of the ballot box as their weapon to ensure that the party returns to power.

“This election is a revolution of mind and will. It’s a revolution where the gun will be the ballot, and we will go out there and vote massively. We will make sure that the ballot box is protected.”
George Opare-Addo, National Youth Organizer of the NDC

Opare-Addo assured supporters that the NDC is committed to upholding the law and protecting democracy, but warned that the party would not allow a repeat of the controversial incidents that marred the 2020 elections, particularly in the Techiman South constituency, where violence and irregularities were reported.

The launch of the NDC Youth Manifesto marks the beginning of what promises to be a heated election campaign, with the NDC positioning itself as the party of change and accountability. Opare-Addo’s remarks were not just a critique of the current government, but also a rallying cry for NDC supporters to remain vigilant and proactive as the country heads to the polls.

The coming months are likely to see intensified political activity, as both the NDC and NPP gear up for what is expected to be one of the most closely contested elections in Ghana’s history.