The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has reaffirmed its role as an impartial overseer of the electoral process, emphasizing that its mandate is to ensure the credibility of elections and not to select Members of Parliament (MPs) or the President. This clarification comes amidst growing criticism of the Commission’s decision to re-collate and declare results for seven of nine contentious parliamentary constituencies.
These constituencies, all of which were won by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), include Okaikwei Central, Nsawam Adoagyiri, Ahafo Ano North, Ahafo Ano South West, Obuasi East, Tema Central, and Techiman South. However, the results for Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North remain unresolved, sparking further debates and concerns.
At a press conference held in Accra on Tuesday, Dr. Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairperson of the EC in charge of Corporate Affairs, underscored the Commission’s dedication to reflecting the will of the Ghanaian electorate in its processes. Addressing the criticisms leveled against the EC, Dr. Asare firmly stated that the authority to elect leaders lies solely with the people of Ghana, and the Commission’s role is to ensure that the decisions made at the polling stations are accurately represented.
“The commission has always maintained that it is not the responsibility of the commission to make someone the president or MP. That is the sole responsibility of the people of Ghana, and the commission will ensure that the will of the people as expressed at the polling stations is reflected at all times,” Dr. Asare emphasized.
The re-collation and declaration of results for the seven constituencies have been met with resistance from the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The party has strongly rejected the EC’s declarations, describing the actions as illegal and vowing to contest them through all available legal and political channels. According to the NDC, the process lacked transparency and fairness, which has further fueled tensions between the two major political parties.
Despite the criticisms, the EC has remained resolute in its commitment to ensuring that the electoral process is conducted in a transparent and credible manner. Dr. Asare addressed the public’s concerns regarding the two outstanding constituencies, Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North, and assured Ghanaians that the MPs-elect for these areas would be declared before the swearing-in of Parliament.
“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. This assurance aims to quell the anxieties of constituents in these areas and underscores the Commission’s dedication to finalizing the process in a timely manner.
The EC’s decision to re-collate results for the seven constituencies was prompted by disputes raised by various stakeholders. These disputes necessitated additional scrutiny to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that the outcomes accurately reflect the will of the people. However, the decision to declare all seven seats for the NPP has raised questions about the impartiality of the process, particularly among supporters of the NDC.
The broader implications of these disputes extend beyond the immediate constituencies involved. They have highlighted the importance of robust mechanisms for resolving electoral disagreements and ensuring transparency at every stage of the process. For many Ghanaians, the controversies surrounding these elections have underscored the need for continued reforms in the country’s electoral framework to address systemic challenges and build public trust.
The tensions between the NPP and the NDC reflect the deep-seated political divisions in Ghana, which often manifest during election periods. The NPP has celebrated its victories in the seven declared constituencies as a validation of its electoral strength, while the NDC has decried the process as flawed and vowed to challenge the results in court. These divergent responses highlight the polarized nature of Ghanaian politics and the challenges of fostering unity in such a competitive political environment.
For the EC, the resolution of the disputes in Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North will be a critical test of its ability to navigate electoral challenges effectively. Successfully finalizing these results will not only reinforce the Commission’s credibility but also contribute to the overall stability of Ghana’s democratic processes. Ensuring that every constituency is adequately represented in Parliament is vital for maintaining the legitimacy of the legislative body and fostering public confidence in the electoral system.
The upcoming swearing-in of the ninth Parliament is a significant milestone in Ghana’s democratic journey. It marks the beginning of a new legislative cycle and underscores the importance of representation and accountability in governance. For the constituents of Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North, the declaration of their MPs-elect will signify the culmination of a rigorous electoral process and the start of a new chapter in their political representation.
The EC’s commitment to finalizing these results before the swearing-in ceremony reflects its recognition of the importance of this moment in Ghana’s democratic history. By addressing the outstanding issues with diligence and transparency, the Commission is reaffirming its role as a neutral arbiter in the electoral process. This dedication to fairness is essential for preserving the integrity of Ghana’s democracy and fostering trust among stakeholders.
In the face of criticism and controversy, the EC has continued to emphasize its commitment to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability. The disputes surrounding the recent elections have provided an opportunity for the Commission to reflect on its practices and explore ways to enhance its processes in the future. Strengthening the mechanisms for resolving electoral disputes, increasing transparency, and fostering stakeholder engagement will be key to building a more resilient and trusted electoral system.
In conclusion, the Electoral Commission’s reaffirmation of its mandate to oversee the electoral process and not select leaders is a timely reminder of the principles that underpin Ghana’s democracy. The resolution of the disputes in Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North, as well as the broader efforts to address the concerns raised in the recent elections, will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s democratic trajectory. As Ghana prepares for the swearing-in of the ninth Parliament, the focus remains on ensuring that the will of the people is accurately reflected and that the democratic process continues to thrive.
