"Byran Acheampong's comments could have unintended consequences, if they contradict reality of govt's performance" - Political Science Lecturer

Dr. Kwasi Amakye-Boateng, a respected Political Science lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has weighed in on recent remarks made by Bryan Acheampong, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, during an event at Nsawam.

Dr. Boateng's assessment of Mr. Acheampong's comments reflects both caution and concern as the nation inches closer to the 2024 general elections.

Dr. Boateng noted that while there is nothing inherently wrong with what Hon. Acheampong said, the context in which the remarks were made raises eyebrows.

"On one part, there is nothing wrong about what he said," Dr. Boateng remarked.

"However, on the second part, he is a political figure and ought not to have said these things. The works of the government should rather speak for itself and not through such utterances."

The Lecturer expressed concern that Byran Acheampong's comments could have unintended consequences, especially if they contradict the reality of the government's performance.

"If he says these things and the works of government seem the other way, then it will not go well with the populace and that can affecthis party," Dr. Boateng warned.

"His utterances at this crucial stage are not necessary. They can cause trouble."

Dr. Boateng further highlighted that this is not the first time a top official from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has made controversial statements of this nature.

While acknowledging that such comments are unhelpful, he downplayed the likelihood of them inciting violence among the electorate.

"Although his comments are bad, they cannot trigger violence among followers of the political parties. The Electoral Commission and Judiciary must sit up though. The peace of this country after December 7 rests on their bosom."

Emphasizing the importance of electoral integrity, Dr. Boateng urged Ghanaians to actively participate in the upcoming elections, while maintaining peace and unity.

"Everyone in this country is at liberty to join any political party. The Honourable Minister cannot hit his chest and say it is only the NPP that has such calibre of persons. Each individual has his own reasons for supporting a particular political party"

He further pointed out that people's political choices are influenced by a variety of factors, including government performance, personal beliefs, and even ethnicity.

"Some vote for political parties based on the performance of the government in time past. Others also join political parties based on ethnicity. We can see that in the two major political parties in Ghana."

Dr. Boateng concluded by stressing the significance of the upcoming elections and the collective responsibility of all Ghanaians to ensure they are free from violence.

'Election is very important, and I will urge all to go out and vote. Let us remember that the country belongs to us; therefore, this upcoming election should be violent-free."

With the political temperature rising as the December 2024 elections approach, Dr. Boateng's remarks serve as a sobering reminder of the power of words in shaping the political landscape and the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the democratic process.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith