EC Declares Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North Parliamentary Results Illegal Amid Controversy
- Dec 19, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 14, 2025
The Electoral Commission (EC) has nullified the parliamentary results for the Dome Kwabenya, Okaikwei Central, and Ablekuma North constituencies, citing procedural breaches and duress during the collation process.
Addressing the media in Accra on Thursday, December 19, EC Chairperson Jean Mensa highlighted the irregularities that compromised the integrity of the results in these constituencies. She revealed that electoral personnel faced threats and the destruction of ballot papers, which led to declarations being made under pressure.
Key Findings
Jean Mensa explained that in both Okaikwei Central and Ablekuma North, results were declared without collating data from a significant number of polling stations.
Okaikwei Central: Results from 31 polling stations were excluded.
Ablekuma North: Results from 62 polling stations were omitted.
"These declarations are unacceptable. The process did not adhere to the established procedures, and the announcements were made under threats. As such, these results are deemed illegal and unenforceable," Madam Mensa stated.
She also noted that similar irregularities occurred in other constituencies and emphasized the EC’s commitment to rectifying these issues.
Progress in Re-Collation
Out of 12 constituencies requiring re-collation, three—Suhum, Akwatia, and Fanteakwa North—have successfully completed the process. The EC is working to address disputes in the remaining constituencies.
Background of the Dispute
The affected constituencies, including Dome Kwabenya, Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North, and Tema Central, were plagued by violence and unrest during the collation of results.
In some cases, the collation venues were relocated to alternative sites, such as the Police Training School, due to security concerns. However, this did not quell disputes over the aggregation and declaration of results.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has contested the EC’s decision, arguing that results declared at polling stations should stand without re-collation.
Public Reaction
The EC’s announcement has sparked heated debate among political parties and the public. While some commend the Commission for prioritizing transparency and accountability, others question the timing and implications of the nullifications.
What’s Next?
The EC has assured stakeholders that all efforts are being made to resolve the outstanding issues and uphold the integrity of Ghana’s electoral process. Re-collation for the disputed constituencies will continue in the coming days.
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