Kennedy Agyapong Pledges to Prevent Rigging in NPP Presidential Election

New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has vowed to fiercely protect the integrity of the party’s upcoming presidential primaries, stating that delegates are now empowered to make their own decisions.

Mr. Agyapong believes delegates have increasingly identified him as the candidate best positioned to lead the NPP to victory in the 2024 general election. He indicated a growing sentiment among Ghanaians is directly influencing the choices of party members.

“When you listen to what Ghanaians are saying, they are speaking directly to the delegates. By the look of things, this time there will be change,” he stated in an interview on Accra-based United Television.

Recalling past elections when the NPP was in power, Mr. Agyapong lamented the prevalence of intimidation tactics. He alleged that government officials, including ministers, CEOs, MCEs, and DCEs, along with security agencies like National Security, the police, and the military, were all complicit in manipulating the process to favour certain candidates.

“Those involved were government favourites, and they intimidated people. They used security agencies – National Security, the police, the military, the Electoral Commission – as well as ministers, CEOs, MCEs and DCEs. Everybody was part of it to ensure that one particular person won,” he said.

However, Mr. Agyapong argued that the current political landscape is significantly different. He pointed out the absence of the President, Vice-President, and key government appointees, asserting they no longer wield the same level of influence over state institutions.

“This time, that is not the case. The intimidation is not there. The President is not there, the Vice-President is not there, ministers are not there, CEOs are not there, MCEs are not there, and they do not have control over the police, National Security or the military,” he explained.

Despite the improved environment, Mr. Agyapong cautioned that he would remain vigilant against any attempts at rigging. He warned that those who might consider such tactics would find their efforts futile.

“I will guard against rigging, because the only alternative for them will be rigging. On that note, I want to assure them that it will not work,” he asserted.

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