A group of assembly members in the Ashanti Region has petitioned against an alleged attempt by some National Democratic Congress (NDC) officials, in collaboration with certain coordinating directors, to unlawfully nominate individuals for the upcoming Ashanti Regional Council of State elections.
In a petition signed by key members of the Conference of Presiding Members, Ashanti Region, the group claims that individuals other than those officially nominated by various Assemblies are being proposed to form part of the Electoral College for the elections.
According to the petitioners, this move directly violates Article 89(2)(c) of the 1992 Constitution, which outlines the legitimate process for selecting representatives for the Council of State elections.
The petitioners argue that any deviation from the legally mandated process undermines democratic representation and the rule of law. They have, therefore, urged the relevant authorities to take swift action to address the alleged breach by:
- Rejecting unauthorized nominations – ensuring that only names officially nominated by Assemblies, on Assembly letterheads and signed by Coordinating Directors, are considered.
- Confirming nominees with Presiding Members – validating the two representatives from each Assembly through the respective Hon. Presiding Members.
- Ensuring proper coordination – directing Coordinating Directors to liaise with elected Assembly members to nominate representatives in Assemblies where no Presiding Member exists.
- Holding accountable those responsible – taking action against individuals attempting to violate the constitutional process.
The petitioners warn that failure to adhere to constitutional provisions could result in the rejection of the President’s nominees for Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in the region.
The petition was signed by notable figures, including:
- Hon. Patrick Kwame Frimpong – Dean of Presiding Members, Ashanti.
- Hon. Anthony Kwame Nsiah – Vice Dean, Conference of Presiding Members, Ashanti.
- Hon. Isaac Osei-Duah – Secretary, Conference of Presiding Members, Ashanti.
- Hon. Augustine Kofi Adomako – Organizer, Conference of Presiding Members, Ashanti.
- Hon. Helena Mensah – Treasurer, Conference of Presiding Members, Ashanti.
- Hon. Nana Yaw Wiredu – Ashanti Regional NALAG Representative.
The group insists that upholding constitutional provisions is crucial to preserving the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions and ensuring a free and fair election process.
They are calling for a prompt response from the relevant authorities to prevent any illegality in the selection of Electoral College members for the Ashanti Regional Council of State elections.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
