The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has emphasized that the 2024 general election will be unlike any other in Ghana’s history. “This election is not just about the political parties. It’s about the soul of our nation,” he stated.
According to him, this is a critical election that will determine whether Ghanaians are truly committed to the cause of multi-party constitutional democracy.
In an exclusive interview with TV3 on Tuesday, September 10, Speaker Alban Bagbin expressed concern over recent remarks made by senior political figures, particularly President Akufo-Addo.
He referred to a statement allegedly made by the President that, “Even if we lose the election, we would know how to hold on to power.”
The Speaker condemned this comment, calling it unacceptable.
“The President knows that power does not belong to him but to the people, especially the voters,” Bagbin stated.
One of the Speaker’s key concerns was the erosion of trust in Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC). He emphasized that restoring this trust is not solely the responsibility of the EC but requires impartial interventions from all stakeholders, including political leaders, citizens, and especially the media.
He said, “The media plays a critical role in holding politicians and even entire countries accountable,” and urged the media to remain vigilant, maintain balance, and ensure that both right and wrong actions are reported impartially.
“The media makes and unmakes politicians and even countries. So, media is very critical in this aspect, and we need to go together,” he added.
According to the Speaker, the citizens, the media, and political actors alike must work toward rebuilding the credibility of the electoral process to guarantee a free, fair, credible, and peaceful election in 2024.
He stressed that this election goes beyond party politics and holds the future of Ghana’s democracy at stake.
“I pray, and I am working towards rebuilding trust and credibility in the electoral process and the Electoral Commission. As patriotic Ghanaians, we must focus on doing what is right for the nation,” Bagbin stated.
He emphasized the importance of the December 2024 elections, describing it as a “make or break” moment for Ghana’s journey towards sustained multiparty democracy.
“This election could attract more people to invest in Ghana if we succeed in conducting a peaceful and credible process,” he added, urging all Ghanaians to look beyond short-term gains and focus on the country’s long-term future.
In a heartfelt plea, Alban Bagbin called on all citizens to prioritize the future of Ghana and stressed, “Please don’t just think about today, think about tomorrow. Let’s ensure that we have a united and peaceful Ghana, our beloved country before, during, and after the election.”
Accra Times