The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has called on its supporters to exercise caution and refrain from celebrating prematurely as the collation of votes from the December 7 general elections continues. The party stressed the need for vigilance and focus to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
Speaking at a press briefing, NDC Communications Director Sammy Gyamfi conveyed the party’s message on behalf of its leader, John Dramani Mahama. He urged supporters to prioritize safeguarding the collation process over celebrations, emphasizing that the journey to declaring the final results is far from over.
A Call to Protect the Votes
“On behalf of our leader and father, John Dramani Mahama, and the incoming president of Ghana, make your way to your constituency collation centre,” Gyamfi stated. He reminded supporters that the voting process does not end with the counting of ballots at polling stations but continues with the collation and verification of results at constituency centres.
He stressed the importance of protecting the integrity of the votes cast, saying, “You have voted, your votes have been counted and declared at the polling station, and now you have the responsibility to protect those votes.”
Staying Vigilant
Gyamfi highlighted the critical nature of the collation process, urging party agents and supporters to remain present at constituency collation centres. He called on agents to ensure that results forms are accurately filled, signed by all parties, and that the NDC’s copies are secured before leaving the centres.
“You don’t jubilate,” he insisted, “until the results are duly declared by the Electoral Commission at the collation centre.”
Avoiding Premature Celebrations
The statement also served as a caution against early celebrations, which Gyamfi warned could create unnecessary distractions and compromise vigilance during the collation process. “You only jubilate after the declarations of the results by the EC at the collation centre,” he reiterated.
Ensuring Transparency
The NDC urged its representatives at collation centres to monitor proceedings closely and report any irregularities immediately. The party remains committed to ensuring transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
This appeal comes amidst rising anticipation as preliminary results begin to emerge from polling stations across the country. With the stakes high, the NDC is prioritizing vigilance and due process as the electoral journey progresses.
The NDC’s cautionary message underscores the significance of every stage in the electoral process, reminding supporters of their collective responsibility in protecting Ghana’s democracy.
