The Electoral Commission (EC) has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the will of the people, as it continues the re-collation and declaration of parliamentary results for nine constituencies following disruptions at constituency collation centers during the December 7 elections.
Addressing the media, the EC emphasized that while Constitutional Instruments (C.I.s) restrict re-collation after declarations, exceptions must be made for declarations that fail to follow due process.
The EC Chairperson Deputy Chairman Eric Bossman Anan stated, “The current declarations are illegal and cannot be upheld. The Commission is mandated to ensure that the will of the people, as expressed at polling stations, is accurately reflected.”
Historical Precedents for Re-collation
The EC cited historical instances under the leadership of former Chairperson Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, where results were re-collated after disruptions. Examples included:
- Zabzugu-Tatale, 2004: A mob attack destroyed polling materials, prompting the Commission to reconvene collation in Tamale.
- Tolon, 2004: Security concerns led to the transfer of collation materials to Tamale, where a recount and declaration were conducted.
- Yapei-Kusawgu, 2004: Mob vandalism disrupted the process, but salvaged materials were used to complete collation in Tamale.
- Pru Constituency, 2004: Irregularities led to a re-collation in Sunyani, resulting in the overturning of the original declaration.
These precedents, according to the EC, validate the current process and highlight the Commission’s authority to ensure credible results despite disruptions.
Challenges in the 2024 Elections
The EC reported that voting on December 7 proceeded smoothly across 40,648 polling stations. However, disruptions arose during the collation of parliamentary results in several constituencies.
Supporters of political parties allegedly stormed collation centers, pressuring officials to declare results prematurely. These invasions resulted in the destruction of properties, including ballot boxes and biometric devices, as well as the manhandling of EC officials.
Specific instances included:
- Forced declarations in Tehchiman South, Tema Central, and Okaikwei Central.
- Truncated collation in Ahafo Ano North, Suhum, and Nsawam-Adoagyiri due to mob violence.
- A wrongful declaration in Obuasi East, which has since been rectified.
Progress and Security Measures
Of the initial 12 disputed constituencies, the EC has resolved issues in 10, leaving two constituencies outstanding. The Commission relocated the collation of results for these constituencies to Accra, citing security concerns in the affected areas.
“Completing the collation in Accra has been more ideal. Out of 12, we have declared 10 constituencies, and we are confident that the remaining two will be finalized before the parliamentary swearing-in,” the Chairperson assured.
The EC highlighted that collation centers are not legally bound to specific locations, enabling the Commission to prioritize security and accuracy in choosing alternate venues.
Legal Backing and Call for Support
Referencing Article 46 of the 1992 Constitution, the EC underscored its independence in performing its duties, free from external direction or control. The Commission urged stakeholders to respect this mandate and support its efforts to ensure credible electoral outcomes.
“In the event of any adverse findings, the proper recourse is the court,” the EC stated, reiterating its resolve to see the process through to completion.
The EC expressed gratitude to its partners and stakeholders for their support and extended festive greetings to the media and the public.
“As we perform our constitutional mandate, let us remember the importance of safeguarding Ghana’s democracy. Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all,” the EC Chairperson concluded.
source: www.kumasimail.com
