The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has assured the public that the results for the Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North constituencies will be finalized, and the Members of Parliament-elect for these areas will be declared, ahead of the swearing-in ceremony for the ninth parliament.
This commitment follows the EC’s successful re-collation and declaration of results in seven previously contentious constituencies. These include Okaikwei Central, Nsawam Adoagyiri, Ahafo Ano North, Ahafo Ano South West, Obuasi East, Tema Central, and Techiman South.
At a press conference held in Accra on Tuesday, Dr. Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairperson of the EC in charge of Corporate Affairs, outlined the Commission’s confidence in addressing the remaining disputes promptly. He emphasized that the delays in declaring results for Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North stemmed from disputes raised by various stakeholders. These disputes necessitated additional scrutiny to maintain the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.
Dr. Asare reassured Ghanaians of the EC’s unwavering commitment to upholding transparency and credibility in the electoral process. He urged all political parties and stakeholders to remain calm as the Commission works to resolve the outstanding issues. “We are hopeful that the two outstanding constituencies will have their MPs-elect very, very soon, way before the swearing-in of parliament,” Dr. Asare stated confidently, reinforcing the EC’s dedication to concluding the process without further delays.
The re-collation and declaration of results in the seven constituencies have garnered mixed reactions from political stakeholders. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has secured all seven seats declared so far, celebrating the outcomes as a testament to their electoral performance. In contrast, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed strong opposition to the EC’s actions, describing them as illegal. The NDC has vowed to challenge the decisions in court, arguing that the process lacked fairness and transparency.
The disputes surrounding Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North have attracted significant public attention, with many Ghanaians eager for a resolution. The EC’s commitment to finalizing these results ahead of the parliamentary swearing-in reflects its determination to ensure that every constituency is adequately represented in the ninth parliament. These two constituencies are vital, not only for their political significance but also for the representation they provide to their respective communities.
The process of re-collation and declaration in the seven previously contested constituencies was marked by meticulous verification and cross-checking of results. This rigorous approach highlights the EC’s efforts to uphold the credibility of Ghana’s electoral system amidst challenges and disputes. Dr. Asare’s assurance of transparency in the remaining cases underscores the Commission’s recognition of the public’s trust in its processes.
While the EC has urged calm, the political tension between the NPP and the NDC remains palpable. The NPP’s dominance in the declared constituencies has bolstered its position, but the NDC’s rejection of the results underscores the partisan divide that continues to shape Ghana’s political landscape. The NDC’s decision to pursue legal action reflects its commitment to addressing what it perceives as electoral irregularities. These legal challenges may influence public perception of the electoral process and shape discussions surrounding electoral reforms in the future.
For the EC, the resolution of these outstanding results represents a crucial test of its ability to navigate contentious electoral disputes. The Commission’s success in finalizing the Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North results will not only reinforce its credibility but also contribute to the overall stability of Ghana’s democratic processes. Ensuring that these constituencies have their MPs-elect declared in time for the swearing-in ceremony is vital for preserving the integrity of the parliamentary system and fostering public confidence in the electoral framework.
The broader implications of these disputes extend beyond the immediate constituencies involved. They highlight the importance of robust mechanisms for resolving electoral disagreements and ensuring transparency at every stage of the process. As the EC works to finalize the outstanding results, it must also consider the lessons learned from this election cycle and explore opportunities for enhancing the efficiency and credibility of future electoral processes.
The swearing-in of the ninth parliament marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s democratic journey. It is an occasion that underscores the importance of representation and accountability in governance. For the Members of Parliament-elect from Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North, their declaration will signify the culmination of a hard-fought electoral process and the beginning of their mandate to serve their constituents.
The EC’s commitment to resolving the outstanding issues before this milestone reflects its recognition of the weight of its responsibilities. By addressing these disputes with diligence and transparency, the Commission is reaffirming its role as a neutral arbiter in Ghana’s democratic system. This dedication to fairness is essential for fostering trust among stakeholders and strengthening the foundations of the nation’s democracy.
In conclusion, the Electoral Commission’s pledge to finalize the results for Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North before the swearing-in of the ninth parliament is a significant step in ensuring a smooth transition into the new legislative cycle. The process has underscored the challenges and complexities of managing electoral disputes but has also highlighted the EC’s commitment to upholding the principles of transparency and credibility. As the nation awaits the resolution of these outstanding cases, the focus remains on preserving the integrity of the electoral process and fostering unity among stakeholders in the interest of Ghana’s democratic future.
