In a show of defiance and discontent, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has mobilised thousands of its supporters across the country for a nationwide demonstration today, under the banner ‘Enough is Enough.’
The protest is directed at the Electoral Commission (EC) and stems from the party’s growing concerns over alleged discrepancies in the voters’ register ahead of the 2024 general elections.
The NDC has expressed grave concerns about the accuracy and transparency of the register, citing irregularities that they fear could undermine the integrity of the upcoming elections.
The protest, which is expected to take place in all 16 regional capitals of Ghana, marks one of the most significant political actions in recent months.
The NDC’s Grievances
At the heart of the NDC’s grievances are concerns about errors and omissions in the voters’ roll, including allegations of missing names, duplication, and discrepancies in biometric data. According to the party, these issues remain unresolved despite repeated efforts to engage with the Electoral Commission.
In a statement ahead of today’s protest, NDC National Chairman of the NDC, Asiedu Nketiah, noted that the EC’s failure to address our concerns threatens the credibility of the 2024 elections. As a party that is committed to the democratic process, we cannot sit by and watch the elections being compromised by an inaccurate and incomplete voter register.
He added that the ‘Enough is Enough’ protest is meant to send a clear message to the EC that the NDC will not accept anything short of a credible and transparent electoral process.
Nationwide Mobilization
The demonstration has drawn participants from all corners of the country, with regional NDC executives coordinating efforts to ensure that the protest is well-attended and peaceful.
In Accra, the protest is expected to culminate in the submission of a petition to the Electoral Commission’s headquarters. Party executives, including the NDC’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, are expected to lead the march in the capital.
In a pre-demonstration briefing, National Communications Officer of the NDC, Sammy Gyamfi, stressed the importance of the nationwide protest.
EC’s Response and Call for Dialogue
In the face of the mounting tensions, the Electoral Commission has maintained that it is open to dialogue with the NDC to resolve any outstanding issues. Deputy Chairperson of the EC, Dr. Eric Bossman Asare, reiterated this stance calling on the NDC to engage with the Commission through the appropriate channels rather than resorting to public protests.
Dr. Asare stressed that while demonstrations are a legitimate way to express grievances, dialogue remains the most effective means of resolving the party’s concerns.
Security Arrangements
The Ghana Police Service has assured the public that it is fully prepared to maintain law and order throughout the demonstration. Director of Police Public Affairs, ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, outlined the security arrangements during a media briefing, stating that adequate personnel have been deployed to ensure the safety of protesters and the general public.
ACP Ansah-Akrofi also reminded the NDC of its responsibilities under the Public Order Act, urging party supporters to remain peaceful and cooperative with law enforcement officers.
“We encourage all demonstrators to follow the approved routes and cooperate with the police to ensure a peaceful event,” she said.
Political Tensions Mount
The ‘Enough is Enough’ demonstration comes at a critical time in Ghana’s political landscape, with just a few months left until the 2024 general elections. The NDC’s decision to take to the streets is seen as a bold move, signalling their growing frustration with the electoral process and the perceived inaction of the Electoral Commission in addressing their concerns.
Political analysts have warned that the escalating tensions between the NDC and the EC could heighten political polarization ahead of the elections.
The stakes are high, as both the NDC and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) gear up for what is expected to be a closely contested election.