“No intent to incite violence” -Bryan Acheampong clarifies campaign remarks

Food and Agriculture Minister, Bryan Acheampong, has responded to concerns surrounding his recent comments made during a campaign rally, insisting that his remarks were not intended to incite violence among the youth.

The Abetifi Member of Parliament had previously sparked controversy by stating that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) would do “whatever it takes” to secure victory in the upcoming December 7 elections. His statement raised alarms among various stakeholders, who interpreted it as potentially encouraging aggressive or unlawful behavior.

In an interview with Accra-based Citi News, Mr. Acheampong sought to clarify his position, explaining that his comments were meant to underscore the determination and strategies the NPP plans to employ to win the upcoming elections. He emphasized that his words were focused on the party’s commitment to victory through legitimate efforts, not through violence or intimidation.

Bryan Acheampong drew comparisons to similar rhetoric used by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the past, which he claimed had not been met with the same level of public concern. He referenced statements made by NDC officials, such as former Communications Minister Omane Boamah, who had confidently predicted a win for the NDC in previous elections, as well as other declarations by NDC leaders asserting their refusal to concede the presidency.

“When Omane Boamah said they [the NDC] were going to fight for political power and get 57.3 percent, what did the NPP say? Nothing, because we know that some of these thoughts are just rhetoric,” Mr. Acheampong stated. He further recalled, “when the NDC said that we should go and carve our stool and sit on it and that they would never give us the presidential seat, what did we do? We know that winning elections in this country is won at the polling station.”

Bryan Acheampong stressed that the NPP’s focus remains on securing victory through the ballot box and respecting the electoral process. He noted that the party’s strategy is centered on effective campaign efforts, voter engagement, and ensuring that every vote is counted and properly accounted for.

He expressed frustration at what he perceives as a double standard in how his comments have been received compared to similar statements made by the NDC. “Whatever they [the NDC] want to do to win the election is what they are doing, and then for the NPP, whatever we have to do to win the election is what we will do. At the end of the day, the votes will be cast, they will be counted, and the winner will be declared,” he added.

He concluded by reiterating his commitment to a peaceful and fair electoral process, calling on all political actors to focus on the issues and the will of the people, rather than resorting to inflammatory language or actions.