The Minister of Interior, Henry Quartey, has affirmed that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is fully committed to a peaceful transition of power in the event of defeat in the upcoming general elections.
This declaration comes amidst concerns raised by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding the willingness of the incumbent Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government to relinquish power if not victorious in the December 7 polls.
These concerns were prompted by remarks from President Akufo-Addo, who expressed hesitance about handing over power to an opponent he had previously defeated in two elections.
At a recent press conference, Asiedu Nketia, National Chairman of the NDC, cautioned the NPP to opt for a peaceful transfer of power for the betterment of the party.
Addressing the media in Accra on Wednesday, May 15, Henry Quartey assured reporters of his party’s dedication to ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
He reiterated that the NPP would indeed facilitate a peaceful transition of power should they not emerge victorious in the impending general elections.
“As a politician, as a political party, it is our hope, it is our wish, it is our belief that by the grace of God, the good people of this country, the good work that we have done in infrastructure and in other interventions, they will give us another mandate.
“Perish the thought, and I say again, perish the thought, If they decide to give their mandate to somebody, we will handover peacefully and walk away, go to the drawing board and come back Insha Allah. But I know that the grace of God abounds and so we shall break the 8.”
He also warned that persons who incite violence before, during or after the 2024 general elections would be dealt with irrespective of political affiliation.
This follows the reported pockets of violence recorded at some centres in the ongoing limited voter registration exercise, which led to the arrest of the Member of Parliament for Asutifi South, Collins Dauda.
“Let me sound the wording again, You know my track record, I walk my talk. Anybody who goes to do something other than what is prescribed, we will do our best to ensure that the law will take its course and the court of competent jurisdiction will do its work.
“May I sound this warning that it will not be political vindictiveness. If anybody commits, whoever the person is, we shall ensure that the law will take its course.”
