Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, has pledged that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will do everything possible to prevent the New Patriotic Party (NPP) from rigging the upcoming 2024 elections.
His remarks came in response to Bryan Acheampong, the Abetifi MP, who suggested that the NPP would use all necessary means to secure victory in the December polls.
Speaking at a campaign rally in the Nsawam-Adoagyiri constituency, Murtala Mohammed criticized Acheampong’s comments, which were made during a speech where Acheampong claimed that the NPP would employ every strategy to win, asserting that the party is equipped with various influential figures including pastors, imams, and traditional leaders.
Some have interpreted Acheampong’s comments as indicative of a potentially manipulative approach to the election.
Murtala Mohammed condemned the NPP’s rhetoric as reckless and irresponsible.
He accused the NPP of avoiding substantive debate on issues, opting for divisive and inflammatory language.
“This is not the first time leading members of the NPP have made such dangerous statements.
They are using religion, ethnicity, and other divisive tactics for electoral gain,“ Mohammed said.
He also expressed concern over the perceived silence from religious leaders, civil society organizations, and traditional authorities regarding these provocative statements.
“The lack of condemnation from these stakeholders is troubling.
He added that if similar statements had been made by members of the NDC, there would have been widespread criticism.
Experts have warned that the polarized political environment and the high stakes of the December elections could lead to instability and violence.
The West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism has urged all political parties to avoid inflammatory language to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
As Ghana approaches the critical elections, stakeholders emphasize the need for clear guidelines and robust measures to safeguard democratic integrity and ensure a peaceful outcome.