Bryan Acheampong clarifies controversial remark, ‘we won’t hand over power’

Bryan Acheampong, the minister of agriculture, has taken action to explain a divisive comment he made on the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) chances of becoming the next government some months ago.

“It will never happen that we, the NPP, will stand on a platform to hand over power to the NDC”, Acheampong said in April of this year while addressing supporters at a gathering in Mpraeso.

He continued with a warning, saying, “If the NDC dares to resort to violence, threats, and impudence during the 2024 election, we will demonstrate our strength. We’ll show them that we are well-prepared.”

The Agriculture Minister’s comments caused a flurry of public discussion, and many people were perplexed by the implications of his claim that the NPP would not cede power to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

His arrest was immediately demanded by detractors from the NDC due to the incendiary statements.

Acheampong has since revealed the reasoning for his earlier statements in an interview with Kwami Sefa Kayi, host of Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” morning show.

He emphasized that his statements were misconstrued, clarifying, “I didn’t make those remarks to undermine the nation’s stability. My intention was to invigorate the NPP and foster optimism that our circumstances will improve, and once they do, we will remain in power.”

“Ultimately, it is the Electoral Commission that holds the authority to declare election results. Following their declaration, no entity within Ghana possesses the mandate to dispute it. Offering insight into the true intent behind his words, he added.

Acheampong drew historical examples to reinforce his point, stating, “This protocol was adhered to by President Rawlings, President Kufour, President Mills, President Mahama, and will similarly be observed by President Akufo-Addo. The Electoral Commission’s declaration stands as the final verdict.”

He emphasized his confidence, however, that with meticulous planning, “the Electoral Commission will favor the NPP in its pronouncement. When our preparations are in order, I am confident that the Electoral Commission will pronounce in favor of the NPP. Subsequently, we will not relinquish that acquired authority.” I am convinced that the Electoral Commission will declare in favor of the NPP after all of our preparations are in place.