Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has asserted that the upcoming 2024 elections will be pivotal for Ghana’s democracy.

In an exclusive interview with Accra-based TV3, Bagbin stated that this election will be unlike any previous ones, marking a significant test for Ghana's commitment to a multi-party constitutional democracy.

“The 2024 elections is unlike the 1992 elections or the 1996 or the 2000 elections. It is not also like 2004, 2008, or 2012 elections, neither is it like the 2016 and 2020. This is a critical election that will determine whether we are truly committed to the cause of multiparty constitutional democracy. "

Bagbin also criticised President Akufo-Addo's recent comments suggesting that his administration would resist handing over power if they lost the election.

"Clearly this election is not just about the political parties, it is about the soul of our nation and so to have very experienced political leaders, particularly His Excellency the president who started politics at a very early age because of his parenthood and who was an activist in the CPP, grew up to be the president of Kwame Nkrumah Youth Forum, and after the 1966 elections joined the United Party, Progress Party, now NPP, to come out after all that experienced t say such a thing that is inciting people to violence.

"That even if we lost the election we will not hand it over, we will do all we can to hold on to power. Such statements are unacceptable and unbecoming of a person of high regard. The President, who has a long history in politics and activism, should know better. The power he wields is not his own but entrusted to him by the people, particularly the voters. Once the people vote, on January 6, 2024, he will have no such power if he loses. His comments are merely an empty boast.”

It is recalled that President Akufo-Addo, while addressing supporters at a mini-rally in Doboro in the Greater Accra region following a visit to the premises of Blue Skies Limited, reiterated that he has no confidence in Mr. Mahama to develop the country.

“I can’t hand over to someone I defeated twice and who is not happy with everything I do; he will destroy the work that I have done.

“Vote for Dr. Bawumia; I have worked with him for the past seven and a half years; I have confidence in him; I know he can continue the good work,” he said.

Watch video below:

This is a critical election that will determine whether we are truly committed to the course of multi party constitutional democracy - Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin#News360 pic.twitter.com/iGs6lBgnTz— #TV3GH (@tv3_ghana) September 9, 2024