Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has strongly denounced the vandalism and looting of state property that followed its victory in the 2024 presidential elections.

In a statement issued on Monday, December 8, 2024, the party expressed profound disappointment, labeling the actions as intolerable and a threat to the nation’s stability.

The NDC attributed some of these actions to overly exuberant supporters who let their enthusiasm for the party’s overwhelming success in the elections lead to disorderly behavior.

“Some of these acts of vandalism and looting of state properties, are reported to have been carried out by disgruntled supporters of the New Patriotic Party who are of the belief that their party Parliamentary Candidates hoarded state-procured food items, fertilizer and other materials which were meant to be distributed before the December 7 elections, as part of the NPP’s voter inducement strategy.

Also, some of these unfortunate incidents are reported to have been carried out by over-jubilant supporters of the NDC who have been carried away by the excitement of the party’s resounding victory in the just-ended Presidential and Parliamentary elections”, it noted.

The party appealed to its supporters to celebrate with moderation and self-control.

“We wish to call on Ghanaians, especially the rank and file of the NDC, to exercise restraint and to go about their jubilations with a sense of responsibility,” it noted.

The party emphasized its unwavering commitment to governance founded on probity, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law, assuring Ghanaians that acts of lawlessness will not be accepted under the new administration.

“The vandalism of state property, mob justice, and any form of lawless retribution have the potential to undermine the peace and stability of our dear nation, hence unacceptable,” it added.

Chair of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Council of Elders in South Africa, Benjamin Kofi Quashie, has shared his perspective on the party’s triumph over the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 elections.

He pointed out that the victory now places a heavy responsibility on John Mahama, emphasizing the importance of delivering on the hopes and expectations of Ghanaians.

In a Sunday interview with Happy FM, he explained that the victory was attributed to the fact that “diasporans were motivated because the country was heading in the wrong direction; motivated because we had a president full of himself and only cared about his cronies and himself; motivated because all Ghanaians helped in inflicting the defeat that the NPP had never tasted before.”

In addition to the financial support from the diaspora, the Chair of the South Africa Council of Elders revealed that many supporters traveled to Ghana, with some taking on roles as observers and polling agents, playing a crucial part in the NDC’s victory.

He expressed his joy over the significant impact of the diaspora’s contributions to the NDC’s success. He characterized the 2024 election result as a clear rejection of the NPP, stressing that it sends a powerful message that Ghanaian voters are alert and will no longer be taken for granted.

“Politicians must do what they promise to do, ensuring they carry everyone along. It’s a decisive victory which puts a lot of pressure on Mr Mahama,” he stated.

The Council of Elders Chair addressed the challenges the NDC government would face with the economy they are inheriting. He pointed out that the NDC campaigned on the theme “Resetting Ghana – Building The Ghana We Want Together.”

He stressed that Mr. Mahama must act quickly and unite all sectors to deliver on the development goals set out during the campaign.

“With a manifesto to work with and the ability of Mr Mahama to deliver on his promises, I think we don’t need four years and Ghanaians would begin to experience some relief in their lives,” he stated.

The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua Frimpong, has expressed optimism about the party’s chances in the just ended elections.

During a press briefing with party agents, he encouraged them to stay vigilant and focused on their responsibilities as the election unfolds.

While confident about the NPP’s prospects, Frimpong emphasized that the party’s work is not complete until all votes are counted and the official results are announced.

He also reminded party agents of their crucial role in ensuring the election process remains transparent, urging them to monitor the proceedings closely.

“Our confidence in victory is high, but we cannot afford to relax. The real work is ensuring that the votes are protected, counted, and declared accurately. I urge all our party agents to remain vigilant and proactive until the process is fully concluded,” he stated.

The General Secretary also expressed concern over the lower-than-anticipated voter turnout in certain areas, urging Ghanaians to play an active role in shaping the nation’s future.

He called on all eligible voters to ensure they cast their ballots before polling ends, emphasizing that each vote is crucial to achieving a fair and democratic result.