The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has reaffirmed that its primary mandate is to oversee the electoral process, not to select Members of Parliament (MPs) or the President.
This statement comes in response to widespread criticism regarding the EC’s decision to re-collate and declare results for seven out of nine contentious parliamentary constituencies, all of which were won by the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The constituencies involved include Okaikwei Central, Nsawam Adoagyiri, Ahafo Ano North, Ahafo Ano South West, Obuasi East, Tema Central, and Techiman South. However, results for Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North remain unresolved.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has strongly condemned the EC’s actions, calling them unlawful and vowing to challenge them through every available avenue.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, Dr. Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairperson of the EC in charge of Corporate Affairs, emphasized that the power to elect leaders lies solely with the people of Ghana.
“The Commission has always maintained that it is not the responsibility of the Commission to make someone the President or an MP. That responsibility lies solely with the people of Ghana. The Commission’s role is to ensure that the will of the people, as expressed at the polling stations, is reflected at all times,” Dr. Asare stated.
He also addressed the unresolved cases of Dome Kwabenya and Ablekuma North, assuring the public that declarations for their MPs-elect would be made soon.
“We are optimistic that the two outstanding constituencies will have their MPs-elect declared very soon—well before the swearing-in of Parliament,” he added.
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