Source: newsthemegh.com
As democracies are predicated on successful elections, President Nana Akufo-Addo has demanded that this year’s elections be free and fair.
“This year, like we have done on eight (8) other preceding occasions, we will go to the polls to elect the President and my successor,” he continued, emphasizing that no true democracy can downplay the significance of elections and the sanctity of the ballot.
“It must, thus, be in our collective interest to ensure that the rules and regulations for the conduct of this year’s elections are fair and transparent, and that we all develop respect for them, a respect that should not be a function of whether you win or lose,” he said.
Speaking to the populace on the eve of Constitutional Day, which falls on January 7 of each year, the president urged all parties involved—the Electoral Commission, political parties and their leaders, voters, and citizens in general—to strive toward securing the strengthening of Ghanaian democracy and supporting the country in keeping its distinguished position as an African democracy.
“At the end of it all, there should be no lingering doubt about the legitimacy of the election, and the winning candidates, on the conclusion of the process, should receive the unalloyed support of all,” he reiterated.
He clarified that doing so will enhance Ghana’s democracy as well as the country’s peace and stability.
When President Akufo-Addo’s time of office ends, he pledged to take all necessary steps to guarantee a seamless transfer of power to his successor.
“By common consent, all well-meaning Ghanaians agree that the democratic form of governance is the most preferable, and we must do everything possible to guarantee the longevity of the 4th Republic,” he said, emphasizing the need for all Ghanaians to pitch in to assist achieve this achievement.
“I shall continue to do just that,” whilst assuring that “it will not be under my watch that any adventurer will seek to torpedo the democratic path on which we have embarked.” he said.
In December 2024, the President once more pledged to assist in “ensuring that we have a free, fair, and transparent election.” I swear to you! adding that “Ghana, not any particular party or candidate, will be the victor of such an outcome.”
As he said, the Constitution “was founded on the principles of democratic accountability and respect for the rule of law, human rights, and individual liberty and freedom.” The President further asked Ghanaians to “continue to embrace the basic values of the Constitution.”
“We must, with the same passion and commitment, uphold our individual and collective responsibility to contribute proactively toward the greater good of society,” he stated, in addition to this freedom.
“No society can be truly free unless its citizens feel the need to embrace both liberty and duty, hard work and compassion,” he said, summarizing his vision of a free society.