The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has announced its decision to keep the original order on the ballot for the 2024 presidential election, despite the recent disqualification of Philip Appiah Kubi, the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) candidate.
The decision was confirmed by EC Chairperson Jean Mensa during an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held on Tuesday, November 12. This move marks a critical milestone as the EC finalizes arrangements for the upcoming election.
Jean Mensa highlighted the importance of maintaining a consistent, well-organized electoral process. She assured party representatives that Kubi’s disqualification does not warrant any changes to the existing ballot structure, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to a smooth and timely election. By preserving the original ballot arrangement, the EC aims to ensure stability in the election process and prevent any disruptions that could result from last-minute adjustments.
Speaking to representatives of Ghana’s political parties at the meeting, Jean Mensa shared that the printing of presidential ballots is already close to completion, with 90 percent of the work finalized. The EC Chairperson reassured the parties that this rapid progress aligns with the Commission’s dedication to meeting all pre-election deadlines and ensuring all necessary materials will be ready well in advance of voting day.
“This morning, we are here to inform you of the Commission’s decision to maintain the presidential ballot as it is,” Jean Mensa stated. “As you may be aware, since you have representatives in the printing houses, we are almost 90 percent complete with the printing of presidential ballots.”
The Ghana Freedom Party faced a challenging situation earlier in the year following the unexpected death of its founding leader and initial presidential candidate, Akua Donkor. Donkor, who had long been the public face and driving force of the party, passed away on Monday, October 28, which led the GFP to nominate Kubi as her replacement. However, as Kubi’s nomination was reviewed, the EC identified a number of irregularities in his paperwork, ultimately leading to his disqualification. Despite granting the GFP a brief window to address these issues, the Commission ultimately found certain discrepancies that could not be reconciled within Ghanaian electoral laws.
With Kubi now officially disqualified, the EC’s decision to retain the ballot order means the other qualified presidential candidates will keep their assigned positions on the ballot. This continuity is seen as an essential step toward a fair and efficient election process, reducing the likelihood of logistical issues that could arise from altering the ballot layout so close to election day. By keeping the original order, the EC aims to streamline the voting process and maintain consistency across polling stations, which is crucial for voter clarity and accessibility.
Maintaining the ballot order also reflects the EC’s broader approach to election preparedness, which has been marked by a strong commitment to efficiency and adherence to timelines. Jean Mensa emphasized that this decision would avoid the need for additional ballot reprints or layout changes, which could cause delays or incur extra costs. Instead, the Commission is focused on ensuring that all materials will be ready ahead of schedule, supporting a smooth voting experience on election day.
For the GFP, Kubi’s disqualification represents a significant setback, particularly in light of the party’s recent efforts to reorganize after Donkor’s passing. Akua Donkor was a notable figure in Ghanaian politics, known for her outspoken nature and dedication to representing marginalized voices. Her death marked a challenging transition for the GFP, which had hoped to continue her vision and maintain the party’s presence in the presidential race. Kubi’s disqualification now leaves the party without a candidate in the 2024 election, impacting its visibility and potential influence among voters.
The EC’s handling of this situation, however, underscores its dedication to upholding electoral standards and ensuring that all candidates meet the necessary legal requirements.
Jean Mensa pointed out that the EC’s commitment to fairness and transparency requires strict adherence to these regulations, regardless of individual party circumstances. By taking a consistent approach to candidate vetting, the Commission seeks to reinforce Ghana’s democratic principles and build public trust in the electoral process.
As preparations continue, Ghana’s political landscape remains active, with parties intensifying their campaigns and gearing up for the final stretch leading to election day.
The EC’s efficient approach to ballot preparation and its clear communication with political parties have helped establish a stable framework for the 2024 election, setting the stage for a well-organized and orderly voting process. The decision to maintain the original ballot order, despite the GFP’s disqualification, has been met with positive responses from many party representatives, who see it as a pragmatic choice that prioritizes stability and clarity for voters.
This decision also emphasizes the EC’s commitment to impartiality, as it works to maintain an environment where all qualified candidates have an equal opportunity on the ballot. By ensuring that the ballot structure remains unchanged, the EC is addressing potential voter confusion and contributing to a smooth, transparent election process that will strengthen the legitimacy of the election results.
In conclusion, the Electoral Commission’s decision to uphold the original ballot order for the 2024 presidential election, despite the disqualification of the Ghana Freedom Party’s replacement candidate, is a significant step in Ghana’s ongoing election preparations. Jean Mensa’s assurances of timely ballot printing and unwavering commitment to the electoral schedule reflect the EC’s proactive stance and dedication to maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s democratic processes.
The decision not only highlights the Commission’s ability to manage unexpected challenges but also reinforces its role in promoting an efficient, fair, and accessible election for all Ghanaians.
