The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has called on the National Peace Council to intervene and compel the Electoral Commission (EC) to expedite the announcement of results for the 2024 general elections.
His appeal follows mounting tension across the country as citizens eagerly await the official declaration of the presidential race.
Addressing a press briefing, Mr. Asiedu Nketia noted that both the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have completed their own collation of results, which confirm a victory for the NDC’s presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama. He criticized the EC’s delay, describing it as a risk to national peace and stability.
“The two major parties, the NDC and the NPP, have shared their collated results. The NPP has even conceded defeat. So what exactly is preventing the EC from announcing the results officially?” he questioned.
Warning Against Escalating Tensions
The NDC Chairman cautioned that the EC’s silence is fueling frustration, particularly among young people at collation centers nationwide. He stressed that any further delay could lead to unrest.
“The inaction of the EC is becoming a threat to peace. The National Peace Council and other relevant stakeholders must act immediately to prevent any escalation,” he warned.
Role of the National Peace Council
Mr. Asiedu Nketia underscored the National Peace Council’s responsibility in maintaining fairness and transparency. While acknowledging the Council’s efforts in facilitating a pre-election peace pact among political parties, he argued that peace cannot be sustained without justice and accountability.
“Peace isn’t just about signing agreements. It demands that all stakeholders, including the Electoral Commission, fulfill their obligations transparently and without undue delays,” he remarked.
Urging Swift Action
The NDC leader urged the EC to prioritize the national interest by announcing the presidential results without waiting for all parliamentary constituencies to be concluded.
“There is no need to hold back the presidential results until all constituency outcomes are finalized. The people of Ghana deserve clarity now,” he said.
Commitment to Peace
Reiterating the NDC’s dedication to peaceful processes, Mr. Asiedu Nketia stressed that justice is fundamental to maintaining harmony.
“We remain committed to peace, but peace must rest on the foundation of justice. The EC has a responsibility to act swiftly and responsibly,” he concluded.
This call places the spotlight on the EC to fulfill its mandate and reinforces the importance of timely action in safeguarding Ghana’s democratic integrity.
