The Vice-Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has issued a heartfelt plea to Ghanaians participating in the special voting exercise to reflect on the prevailing economic hardships in the country and vote for change by supporting the NDC’s presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama.

Addressing journalists, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang emphasized the need for all special voters—including members of the security services, media practitioners, and officials—to consider the pressing economic challenges and the state of governance when casting their votes.

“Our country is grappling with significant economic difficulties, and these hardships have had a direct impact on every Ghanaian.
“As you head to the polls, I encourage you to allow these realities to guide your decision-making. A vote for the NDC is a vote to reset the country on the path of progress, equity, and accountability.”
Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Vice-Presidential Candidate of the NDC

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the deteriorating state of press freedom in Ghana under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration. She alleged that many journalists have fled the country due to fear of attacks and intimidation in the course of performing their professional duties.

“During the Mahama administration, press freedom was upheld with high regard. Journalists could do their work without fear of harassment or retribution,” she noted.

“Unfortunately, this is no longer the case. The current government’s actions have instilled fear among media practitioners, making it increasingly difficult for them to operate freely.”
Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Vice-Presidential Candidate of the NDC

She called on journalists participating in the special voting exercise to remember the challenges they face in their line of duty and to vote in favor of a leadership that prioritizes freedom of the press and safety for media personnel.

Electoral Transparency and Security

Turning her attention to the role of institutions in ensuring credible elections, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang appealed to the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct the 2024 general elections with utmost transparency and fairness. “We don’t want the elections to be in the news for the wrong reasons,” she stated.

“We are counting on the Electoral Commission to do the right thing and ensure that the process reflects the will of the people.
“Similarly, we urge the security agencies to remain impartial in the discharge of their duties.”
Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Vice-Presidential Candidate of the NDC

The former Education Minister also underscored the importance of fair and balanced coverage of the elections by the media. She urged media practitioners to adhere to professional standards, ensuring that their reporting contributes to a peaceful and credible electoral process.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s remarks align with the broader message of the NDC’s campaign, which has focused on addressing Ghana’s economic challenges, including inflation, youth unemployment, and public debt.

The party has promised to implement policies that will create jobs, reduce the cost of living, and revitalize critical sectors of the economy.

Her call for change resonates with many Ghanaians who have expressed concerns over the rising cost of living, limited access to opportunities, and the perceived mismanagement of the country’s resources under the NPP administration.

The special voting exercise is a critical component of the electoral process, allowing individuals who will be on duty on election day—such as security personnel, media practitioners, and election officials—to cast their votes ahead of the general elections scheduled for December 7, 2024.

The outcome of the special voting often provides insight into the mood of key sectors of the electorate and can set the tone for the general elections. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s appeal seeks to mobilize this crucial voting bloc to support the NDC’s vision for change.