The Electoral Commission (EC) will host the much-anticipated balloting for the 2024 presidential elections today, Friday, September 20, 2024. The event is set to take place at the EC’s headquarters at 4 PM. This crucial step will determine the order in which the presidential candidates’ names will appear on the ballot paper for the upcoming elections in December.
The importance of this balloting process cannot be overstated, as the position of a candidate on the ballot paper often influences voter psychology. Candidates placed higher on the ballot typically receive more attention from voters, making today’s event a key moment in the election race.
Earlier, the EC released a list of the qualified presidential candidates. Out of 24 individuals who filed to contest the elections, only 13 were cleared to participate in the race for the presidency. This comes after a thorough vetting process by the EC, which scrutinized the qualifications of each candidate based on the requirements stipulated by the electoral laws of Ghana.
Among the candidates who have successfully passed the vetting process, some high-profile names stand out. Former President John Dramani Mahama, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is one of the notable contenders. Mahama, who is seeking another term in office, has a strong following within his party and is considered a major force in this election.
Another prominent figure is Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). As the current Vice President of Ghana, Bawumia is expected to lead a competitive campaign as he seeks to succeed President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who is not contesting this election due to term limits. Bawumia’s campaign has been centered around economic transformation, technology, and maintaining the stability of the nation’s economy.
John Alan Kojo Kyerematen, who recently resigned from the NPP to contest as an independent candidate, is also on the list of qualified candidates. Kyerematen’s decision to run as an independent has added a unique twist to the 2024 elections, as he was once a leading figure in the NPP and has a significant support base. His campaign is expected to draw votes from both NPP and NDC supporters, making him a key player in the race.
Another notable candidate is businessman and philanthropist Nana Kwame Bediako, whose influence and popularity have grown in recent years due to his contributions to the development of various sectors in Ghana. Bediako’s candidacy has been seen by some as a refreshing alternative to the traditional political landscape dominated by the NPP and NDC.
While the qualified candidates are gearing up for the final stretch of their campaigns, several aspirants have been disqualified from the race, making headlines across the nation. Notably, Bernard Mornah of the People’s National Convention (PNC) failed to meet the necessary requirements set by the EC, leading to his disqualification. Mornah, a seasoned politician, had been expected by many to participate in this year’s election but was ultimately deemed ineligible.
Similarly, Janet Nabla of the People’s National Party (PNP) was disqualified from the race. Nabla, who has been a vocal advocate for women’s participation in politics, expressed disappointment over the decision but respected the EC’s ruling. Her exclusion from the race, alongside other candidates, has sparked debates about the rigors of the qualification process.
Other candidates who were disqualified include Nana Stephens Adjepong, Paul Perkoh, and James Kwesi Oppong, among others. The disqualification of these candidates stemmed from issues such as incomplete documentation, failure to meet the financial requirements, or discrepancies in their nomination forms.
As the balloting event approaches, anticipation is building across the nation. Political analysts and party supporters are eagerly waiting to see the outcome of the balloting, which could potentially shape the dynamics of the 2024 elections. For the 13 qualified candidates, today’s event marks the beginning of the final push toward winning the presidency.
The 2024 elections are expected to be one of the most competitive in recent history, with a wide array of candidates bringing diverse perspectives and policy proposals to the table. The election will be held against the backdrop of various national issues, including economic recovery, employment, education, and healthcare. Each candidate has made promises to address these challenges, and voters will have the opportunity to decide which leader is best suited to steer the nation forward.
Ghanaians are set to head to the polls in December, and the outcome of today’s balloting will play a significant role in determining how each candidate’s campaign unfolds. The EC has assured the public that the balloting process will be conducted in a transparent and fair manner, ensuring that every candidate receives an equal opportunity in the race.
As the clock ticks toward the 4 PM balloting, all eyes are on the EC headquarters, where the future of Ghana’s presidential race will be shaped.
