National Democratic Congress (NDC) is set to embark on a demonstration over the integrity of the Voter Register by the Electoral Commission on the 17th of September, 2024.
However, during a meeting with regional police leaders, Fifi Kwetey the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress confirmed that the demonstration will proceed, emphasizing its significance in safeguarding the credibility of Ghana’s electoral process. Fifi Kwetey expressed that this demonstration is not limited to the Greater Accra Region but will take place in all regions simultaneously.
The meeting also served as an opportunity to finalize the route of the demonstration. Fifi Kwetey outlined the agreed path for the Greater Accra demonstration:
“In terms of the routes, we had an agreement that it is going to start from the Kwame Nkrumah Circle, proceed through to TUC, continue through the ministries, come all the way to parliament, and then end up in front of the premises of the Electoral Commission.”
Fifi Kwetey General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress NDC
Fifi Kwetey elaborated that, part of the meeting’s objective was to confirm the endpoint, where the demonstration will conclude. According to Fifi Kwetey, the team physically inspected the location to ensure all details were in place.
The Purpose Behind the Demonstration
The NDC’s demonstration aims to press for a forensic audit of the electoral register, which Fifi Kwetey described as central to the upcoming election.
“Generally, in terms of the importance of this demonstration is to say that, it is something that is beyond the NDC. It’s a critical election ahead of Ghana, and it is in everybody’s interest to ensure that the register which is going to be the center of this whole election, is credible[ and] that everybody can have confidence in.”
Fifi Kwetey General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress NDC
Fifi Kwetey stressed that the credibility of the electoral register is key to the upcoming election’s integrity, and it is essential that all stakeholders have confidence in it. He noted that several issues have arisen concerning the register, which has led the NDC to call for an audit.
Transparency and Accountability
Fifi Kwetey echoed the sentiment that transparency in the electoral process is vital for national peace and stability. He emphasized that the Electoral Commission should have no problem opening its doors for scrutiny. This, he stated, would reassure the nation that the election process is secure.
“As the NCO has said, if there’s nothing to hide, then there should be no problem at all. You should be able to open your door and say, ‘Come and check.’”
Fifi Kwetey General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress NDC
By calling for this audit, Fifi Kwetey and the NDC believe they are ensuring the nation’s ability to conduct a free and fair election. He reiterated that the goal is to protect Ghana’s democracy and electoral integrity.
“It’s critical for our peace, it’s critical for the very safety of our elections, to ensure that this country is able to go through the election and come out in one peace.”
Fifi Kwetey General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress NDC
Fifi Kwetey confirmed that the police have granted permission for the demonstration to proceed, reflecting the authorities’ understanding of the event’s importance. He asserted; “So the police have given us the all-clear. Absolutely.” Fifi Kwetey pointed out that underlining it is not solely an NDC initiative but a national effort to preserve the integrity of the electoral system. He noted; “We are asking the whole country to join this demonstration. It’s critical for our peace [ and] is critical for the safety of our elections.”
Fifi Kwetey’s statement reflects the NDC’s strong commitment to ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process. By mobilizing the nation to participate in the demonstration, the party seeks to hold the Electoral Commission accountable and push for an audit of the voter register. As the demonstration date approaches, all eyes will be on how the NDC’s call for electoral integrity resonates with the broader public.
