Malik Basintale, the Deputy National Communications Officer of Ghana’s opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has issued a stern warning to Bryan Acheampong, a prominent figure in the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). This comes after Acheampong boldly declared that the NDC would not win the upcoming 2024 elections, no matter their efforts.
Acheampong, who currently serves as the Minister of Food and Agriculture and represents Abetifi in Parliament, made these comments during a campaign rally for the NPP’s Presidential Candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, held in Nsawam. He reiterated the NPP’s commitment to securing a decisive victory in the forthcoming elections, stressing that the party would do whatever it takes to remain in power.
The remarks, however, have sparked controversy, especially given Acheampong’s recent history in the political and business arena. Acheampong, who is also a businessman, had previously faced public scrutiny over his unsuccessful attempt to acquire a 60% stake in four hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT). The acquisition, which he sought through his company, Rock City Hotel, became a focal point of debate, raising questions about the intersection of business and politics in Ghana.
During the rally, Acheampong confidently declared, “I have said that whether the NDC likes it or not, they will never win the 2024 elections. They will not win. You can check their records. The NPP exists to win elections.” His words were met with applause from the crowd but drew immediate criticism from opposition figures.
Basintale, addressing NDC supporters at a campaign event in the Upper West Region, did not mince words in his response. He cautioned Acheampong and the NPP against any attempts to hold onto power if former President John Mahama wins the 2024 election. Basintale’s message was clear and uncompromising.
“If the people vote for John Mahama on December 9th, and your MPs, if he [Bryan Acheampong] is truly a man, let him refuse to hand over power, and he will see what happens. When iron meets iron, you will see fire,” Basintale warned, implying that any attempts to subvert the democratic process would be met with strong resistance.
The fiery exchange has heightened tensions between the two major political parties as the 2024 elections approach. Both the NPP and NDC have been gearing up for a fiercely contested election, with each side confident of victory. However, the rhetoric from Acheampong and the strong response from Basintale suggest that the battle for power could be one of the most intense in Ghana’s recent history.
Basintale also addressed the issue of fertilizers allegedly diverted to Burkina Faso, an accusation that has further strained relations between the two parties. He suggested that Burkina Faso’s President, Ibrahim Traoré, had rejected the fertilizers, leading to their return to Ghana. According to Basintale, “Someone told me we might not be able to locate the fertilizer, but I said the same donkeys that took the fertilizer to Burkina will show us where it is, and they will bring it back.”
His comments point to ongoing tensions and allegations of corruption within the NPP, adding another layer of complexity to the political landscape ahead of the elections.
As Basintale wrapped up his speech, he expressed confidence in the NDC’s support base, particularly in the Upper West Region. He noted the large turnout at the campaign event as a sign of the region’s solid backing for the NDC and John Mahama. “When I return to Accra, you can expect more fireworks because I know we have the backing, and I know the Upper West Region is solidly behind the NDC and John Mahama,” he declared.
The NDC official also took the opportunity to criticize the NPP for recent economic hardships faced by Ghanaians. He referenced the Finance Minister’s apology to the nation, questioning whether the government could truly address the suffering endured by citizens over the past seven years. Basintale specifically highlighted the plight of pensioner bondholders and those affected by the collapse of banks, events that have left many Ghanaians struggling.
“Can they bring back the lives lost among pensioner bondholders or erase the disgrace suffered by those affected by the collapse of banks?” Basintale questioned, pointing to the deep-seated economic challenges facing the country.
