The Director of Elections and IT of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Tanko Rashid- Computer has addressed concerns over the party’s strategy for safeguarding its parliamentary majority following the 2024 general elections.
His remarks underscore the NDC’s determination to ensure that the will of the Ghanaian electorate is upheld amidst disputes in some constituencies.
“We have 182 seats which were officially declared. devoid of these nine constituencies. If you look at the distribution, we got 182 solid undisturbed and then, we are now reaching out for the nine areas to make sure that we can fetch more.”
Dr. Tanko Rashid- Computer Director of Elections and IT of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
He acknowledged that seven of these disputed constituencies had been declared in favor of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
However, the NDC excluded these results from their count, dismissing them as illegitimate.
Dr. Tanko expressed dissatisfaction with the collation process in constituencies such as Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North, labeling the exercise as fraudulent. He dismissed the results from these areas. He asserted;
“Whatever they are doing, there is a charade. We are not going to accept it. We are not going to respect anything coming out from that place. It was complete charade and we are not going to respect it. We have our other plans in place.’’
Dr. Tanko Rashid- Computer Director of Elections and IT of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
He stressed that the party would uphold the original declarations made by electoral officials until proven otherwise.
Dr. Tanko hinted at alternative measures the NDC might deploy to protect the sanctity of its declared victories.
However, following the declaration of John Mahama as the winner of the 2024 presidential election, Ghana witnessed incidents of post-election violence and vandalism.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo strongly condemned these acts, attributing them to some executives and supporters of the NDC.
Speaking at the bicentenary anniversary of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, he emphasized the need to uphold Ghana’s democratic legacy.
Condemnation of Violence
The president expressed regret over the actions of some NDC supporters, stating that they tarnished the democratic process.
“I acknowledge the unfortunate incidents of post-election hooliganism, vandalism, and violence – such acts were completely unnecessary and are wholly unacceptable. They must never reoccur.”
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
He further emphasized that these acts posed a threat to Ghana’s peace and stability, calling for a collective commitment to preserving the country’s democratic values.
“I commend greatly the Electoral Commission for its diligent and transparent efforts in supervising the electoral process and in compiling and delivering the results of the elections.”
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
He noted that the successful conduct of the elections reinforced Ghana’s democratic credentials and urged all citizens to protect and cherish this shared heritage.
The president also recognized the role of the security services, particularly the police, stating;
“I’ll also commend the security services, especially the police, for effectively monitoring the elections, which ensured their peaceful nature.”
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
President Akufo-Addo concluded his remarks with an appeal for national unity. He emphasized;
“As a nation, we must be resolute in our commitment to safeguarding peace, stability, and the democratic values we have worked so hard to establish.”
H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo President of the Republic of Ghana
Both Dr. Tanko Rashid and President Akufo-Addo addressed critical issues following the 2024 elections.
While Dr. Tanko focused on protecting the NDC’s parliamentary gains and rejecting disputed results, the president condemned acts of violence and praised the Electoral Commission for maintaining a credible electoral process.
Together, their statements reflect the complexities and tensions inherent in post-election governance in Ghana.
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