Former President and the current flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama has intimated that, his reason for fight in this election and his reason for petitioning the Supreme Court, was to clear doubt and highlight some principles of democracy.
In an address to tackle issues related to the Presidential results by the Electoral Commission, by highlighting some of his reasons for petitioning and what he seeks to gain from the election petition, John Mahama, indicated that, he wanted the removal of doubt from the minds of Ghanaians and also for all to know that our elections should be free, fair and safe.
“We do not have to settle for a process that leaves us more confused with more questions than answers. I want a Ghana where institutions of state can be held accountable on principle and demand transparency without the risk of losing our lives.”
He also noted that, Ghana must be a country where citizens live without any doubt and to also know that the way forward of the country is determined by the citizens.
“…And guarantee that they work in favor of the nation and not in the interest of the administration or the interest of the person in power. That is what I want.
“And this is why today, my lawyers filed a petition in the Supreme Court of Ghana challenging the declaration of the results of the December 7, 2020 presidential elections, made by Jean Mensah, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.”
He further noted that his filing is as a result of the EC’s chairperson’s clear failure to act in accordance with the country’s constitution.
He also added that, he not conceding defeat in this election is as not as a result of the desire for power but rather because of his dedication to principle and commitment to democracy.
He further posited that, based on the irregular and inconsistent results that were reported, he had every reason to doubt that this election was not free and transparent adding that, without these, there was no way one would be sure that the results announced truly represent the will of the people.
“My brothers and sisters, I stand here today to remind you that, Ghana is a peaceful nation precisely because Ghanaians have stood on principles and we have always fought for our democracy and our forefathers and foremothers have always understood that without these basic principles, and foundation, whatever peace it is that exist in our country will not be lastly.”
John Mahama noted that, whatever liberation the nation has as architects of our future will soon be lost whenever it decides to take the easiest road. He added that, the first step is always to surrender and ‘often the thing that we loose are the thing that we value the most’.
“There are many of you who are listening to me who have spent your entire life knowing only democracy. You know a Ghana where every four years, who exercise their rights to chose their leaders who they believe will serve their best interest. We know a Ghana where the baton has been passed graciously form one president to the other.”
He then noted that, through the trials and tribulations the nation has been through so far, the democracy of the nation has been strengthened.
