The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has strongly dismissed election-rigging claims made by the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi.

Gyamfi had recently alleged that Colonel Michael Opoku had been tasked by President Nana Akufo-Addo to execute an election-rigging scheme during the December election.

Chairman Wontumi described the statement as baseless, childish, and unworthy of serious attention, stating that such claims deserve to be discarded “in a latrine.”

He criticized the NDC for resorting to unfounded accusations and urged them to focus on constructive campaigning rather than spreading misinformation to undermine public confidence in the electoral process.

“I have taken notice of a wild claim by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to the effect that Brigadier General Michael Opoku, General Officer Commanding Central Command of the Ghana Armed Forces, has been tasked by President Akufo-Addo to execute an election-rigging scheme in the Ashanti Region ahead of the 2024 polls”.
Chairman Wontumi

Chairman Wontumi further remarked that based on his observations in the Ashanti Region, the NDC appears to be neglecting active campaigning efforts on the ground.

Instead, he claimed, they are choosing to remain in the comfort of their homes and offices, devising strategies to accuse the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of election rigging.

He criticized this approach, suggesting that it reflects a lack of commitment to engaging voters and presenting their policies directly to the electorate.

Chairman Wontumi urged the NDC to adopt a more proactive and transparent campaign strategy rather than relying on unfounded allegations to discredit the ruling party. “The NPP is working tirelessly, campaigning as if we were in opposition, while the NDC’s efforts have been lackluster”.

Bawumia’s Nationwide Campaign Lauded

Furthermore, Chairman Wontumi highlighted the NPP’s dedication to a robust campaign strategy, citing Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s extensive constituency tours as evidence.

According to him, Dr. Bawumia has visited nearly all 275 constituencies nationwide, with only two remaining to complete his tour.

He noted that in contrast, former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC flagbearer, has visited just 65 constituencies.

Chairman Wontumi emphasized that this demonstrates the NPP’s commitment to reaching every corner of the country and engaging with voters at the grassroots level.

He argued that such efforts reflect Dr. Bawumia’s work ethic and dedication to winning the trust of the electorate, unlike what he perceives as the NDC’s more relaxed approach to campaigning.

“However, as we speak, Mahama has only toured 65 constituencies with only 18 days more to the general election. The NDC’s allegations of election rigging are a preemptive excuse for their impending loss.
“We have really campaigned and we continue to campaign as though we are in opposition. The NPP has really worked hard”.
Chairman Wontumi

The NPP stalwart encouraged the public to consider the numerous impactful interventions and social policies implemented by the NPP.

He highlighted key initiatives such as the Free SHS program, the ambitious Agenda 111 project aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure, and the restoration of teacher and nursing trainee allowances, which he noted were canceled during the NDC administration.

He argued that these policies demonstrate the NPP’s commitment to improving lives and fostering national development, urging voters to contrast them with the NDC’s track record. “These are all evident that the NPP is winning this election and we don’t need any army officer to rig the election in our favor”.

Chairman Wontumi emphasized the need for the police and army to monitor and address the activities of rogue NDC members allegedly undergoing training under the supervision of retired Commissioner of Police, Kofi Boakye, with the intent to incite violence.