The New Patriotic Party’s top election strategist is questioning recent polling data while calling for strict adherence to electoral rules as the Akwatia constituency prepares for a crucial vote.
Evans Nimako, the party’s National Director of Research and Elections, expressed skepticism about surveys showing the governing National Democratic Congress leading in various constituencies. Speaking to MyNewsGh.com, he framed the upcoming elections as a significant test requiring cooperation from all stakeholders.
“It needs to be resolved by all of us—the NPP, the NDC, the Electoral Commission, the media—everyone,” Nimako stated. His comments reflect growing tension as both parties prepare for what many consider a pivotal electoral contest.
The NPP official emphasized voter confidence as a critical factor in ensuring successful elections. He stressed that citizens must feel secure about casting their ballots without facing difficulties or intimidation afterward.
“We must give confidence to the people coming out to vote. They should know they can cast their ballots and return home without any difficulty,” he explained.
Nimako positioned his party’s approach around ensuring electoral integrity rather than simply winning seats. This strategy suggests the NPP believes strict rule enforcement will favor their candidates over current polling predictions.
“We only want to make sure that the rules of the game are applied,” he added, indicating confidence that proper procedures would benefit opposition candidates.
Security arrangements have become a focal point for both parties as election day approaches. Nimako confirmed the NPP has engaged directly with law enforcement agencies to address their concerns about voting safety.
The party has held discussions with the Ghana Police Service, the Inspector General of Police, and the National Peace Council. These meetings aim to ensure adequate security measures protect voters and maintain order throughout the electoral process.
“We’ve expressed our concerns,” Nimako noted. “We have to be clear in our minds that when it comes to election security, the Ghana Police Service may be assisted by other security agencies.”
His comments suggest the NPP expects potential challenges that might require multiple security agencies working together. This preparation reflects lessons learned from previous elections where security became a contentious issue.
The party’s approach involves proactive communication with authorities rather than waiting for problems to emerge. Nimako emphasized their willingness to raise questions and voice concerns when situations appear unclear.
“When we are unsure, we ask questions, we raise issues, and we make our views known,” he stated. This stance positions the NPP as actively monitoring electoral processes rather than passively accepting outcomes.
The Akwatia constituency has attracted particular attention due to its competitive nature and potential impact on overall electoral mathematics. Both major parties are investing significant resources in securing victory in this key battleground.
Recent polling data suggesting NDC advantages has prompted strong pushback from NPP leadership. Nimako’s skepticism reflects broader party concerns about survey methodology and potential bias in polling organizations.
The NPP’s emphasis on rule application suggests they believe current advantages enjoyed by the governing party stem from procedural irregularities rather than genuine voter preference shifts.
Electoral Commission officials have yet to respond publicly to the NPP’s concerns about rule enforcement and security arrangements. However, the commission typically maintains neutrality while addressing legitimate procedural questions from registered parties.
Media coverage of the electoral process has become another area of focus for opposition parties. Nimako’s call for media involvement in resolving electoral challenges suggests recognition of journalism’s role in ensuring transparency and accountability.
The National Peace Council’s involvement indicates both parties recognize the potential for tensions that could affect the voting process. Peace-building organizations typically engage with political parties to prevent conflicts before they escalate.
As election day approaches, the NPP’s strategy appears focused on process integrity rather than campaign messaging. This approach could reflect confidence in their ground game if procedural fairness is maintained.
Whether strict rule enforcement will indeed favor the opposition, as Nimako suggests, remains to be tested through actual voting results. The Akwatia outcome could provide early indicators of broader electoral trends.
