Samuel Yaw Adusei: The strategist behind NDC's electoral security in Ashanti region

The 2024 General Elections saw a meticulous approach to electoral security operations in the Ashanti Region, with Samuel Yaw Adusei playing a pivotal role.

The former Deputy Minister for Water Resources, Works and Housing, and former Deputy Ashanti Regional Minister combined his decades of political experience with strategic planning to ensure a credible process in the region often described as the battleground of Ghanaian politics.

Mr Adusei, a seasoned politician with over 30 years of experience, has long advocated that elections are won at the polling stations. Guided by this principle, he took a hands-on approach to safeguard the integrity of the polls. As a member of the Ashanti Regional Security Committee, his contributions to the success of the elections were not only visible but also commendable.

Strategic Coordination from Kumasi Command Center

Operating from a prime office in Kumasi, Hon. Adusei established a comprehensive Operations (OPS) Room that served as the nerve center for the electoral security taskforce. From this base, he coordinated efforts to prevent electoral malpractices, particularly in protecting the ballots and ensuring fair representation at polling stations.

In his own words, the 2024 elections were his "personal project," a sentiment driven by his determination to end the opposition party's prolonged absence from governance. "Keeping NDC in opposition for the third time would render my three decades of political efforts futile," he said. His passion for the cause saw him sacrifice personal health and resources, channeling significant funding into operations aimed at securing a win for H.E. John Dramani Mahama.

Ground-Level Engagement and Tactical Tours

Hon. Adusei embarked on rigorous tours across the Ashanti Region, covering the length and breadth of the area three times. Often traveling solo, his tours were aimed at familiarizing constituency executives with key stakeholders, including Electoral Commission (EC) district officers and police commands. This direct engagement emboldened party executives and solidified their understanding of the electoral process, creating a united front to tackle irregularities.

During these meetings, Adusei emphasized three critical issues:

1. Command Structure at Polling Stations: He clarified that Presiding Officers (POs) do not wield absolute authority, a common misconception that could be exploited to eject party agents unfairly.

2. Positioning of Party Agents: Proper agent positioning was highlighted as a preventive measure against ballot manipulation.

3. Voting Screen Positioning: Adjusting screen placement ensured transparency and minimized opportunities for tampering.

A Tactical Leader in a Battleground Region

Hon. Adusei’s deep understanding of electoral laws and his charismatic leadership resonated with stakeholders. "He presented the issues with authority and a profound grasp of electoral security," a police commander noted. An electoral officer praised his instructive voice and exceptional presentation skills, while a member of the Ashanti Regional Council of Elders described his coordination as "perfect."

His efforts bore fruit, with Hon. Adusei confidently predicting after his final tour on December 5, 2024, that the NDC would exceed 30% in Ashanti Region—a feat that had significant implications for the overall electoral outcome.

Behind-the-Scenes Efforts and Legacy

While much of Hon. Adusei's work remains confidential, he revealed that over 80% of the security operations were not for public consumption. These covert efforts, many funded from his personal resources, played a crucial role in mitigating electoral malpractice and fostering transparency.

Hon. Adusei's commitment to electoral integrity and his strategic foresight were instrumental in achieving the desired results for the NDC in the Ashanti Region. His work during the 2024 elections underscores the importance of proactive, localized approaches to electoral security and serves as a testament to his enduring legacy in Ghanaian politics.

Celebrating a Champion of Electoral Integrity

As the dust settles on the 2024 General Elections, Hon. Samuel Yaw Adusei's contributions to the NDC’s success in the Ashanti Region stand out. His unwavering dedication, strategic acumen, and selflessness in safeguarding the democratic process make him a figure worth celebrating in Ghana's political landscape.