The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has leveled serious allegations against Brigadier-General Michael Opoku, accusing him of masterminding an election-rigging scheme designed to benefit the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming December 7 polls.
Addressing a press conference in Accra, the NDC’s National Communications Director, Sammy Gyamfi, outlined what the party described as a “well-crafted plan” involving ballot stuffing, manipulation of election materials, and the use of state security forces to intimidate voters. The alleged scheme, according to Gyamfi, is being spearheaded by Brigadier-General Opoku, currently the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Central Command of the Ghana Armed Forces.
Allegations Against Brigadier-General Michael Opoku
Sammy Gyamfi accused Brigadier-General Opoku of orchestrating plans to rig the elections in the Ashanti Region and other areas. He claimed the officer was training NPP-aligned thugs at military facilities, such as the Asutsuare Military Camp, to carry out violent acts against NDC agents and supporters on election day.
According to Gyamfi, Brigadier-General Opoku has relocated his family to the United Kingdom, allegedly vowing to deliver electoral victory to the NPP in exchange for a promotion to Chief of Defense Staff should the ruling party retain power.
The NDC further alleged that Opoku’s Kumasi residence is being used as a storage site for weapons, illegally printed ballot papers, military uniforms, and other materials intended for use in the alleged rigging plot.
Historical Concerns: Ayawaso West Wuogon Incident
Sammy Gyamfi reminded Ghanaians of Brigadier-General Opoku’s controversial role during the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election in 2019. As the then-Director of Operations at the National Security Secretariat, Opoku reportedly ordered the violent crackdown on civilians, including the assault on Ningo-Prampram MP Samuel Nartey George. The Emile Short Commission, which investigated the incident, held him liable for the actions of the SWAT team and recommended disciplinary action. However, the NDC noted, President Akufo-Addo rejected these recommendations and later promoted Opoku to his current rank.
NDC’s Call to Action
The NDC called for Brigadier-General Opoku’s immediate removal as GOC of the Central Command, citing his alleged involvement in activities detrimental to free, fair, and peaceful elections. The party also urged the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the Chief of Defense Staff to investigate the allegations and ensure accountability.
“We cannot allow individuals like Brigadier-General Opoku, with a history of violence and subversion, to be in charge of our security architecture for the 2024 elections,” Gyamfi stated.
Assurances of Vigilance and Peace
Sammy Gyamfi emphasized the NDC’s commitment to peace and transparency during the elections, warning that any attempts to undermine the will of the people would be met with resistance. He called on all stakeholders, including the Electoral Commission and security agencies, to uphold their neutrality and ensure a credible electoral process.
“No Ghanaian life should be lost in the name of elections,” Gyamfi said. “Elections are about counting heads, not cutting heads.”
NDC’s Confidence in Victory
The NDC expressed optimism about their chances in the December 7 elections, positioning their presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, as the nation’s best hope for rebuilding the economy and restoring trust in governance.
Sammy Gyamfi concluded by contrasting Mahama’s track record of economic management and leadership with what he described as the failures of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, branding him a “failed economist” and accusing the NPP government of leaving Ghana in economic ruin.
Call for Public Support
The NDC urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities during the electoral process. “We must all expose and condemn any actions that threaten the peace and democracy of our nation,” Gyamfi appealed.
The press conference ended with a firm commitment from the NDC to protect the integrity of the electoral process and to hold those responsible for any infractions accountable.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
