The Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) has unequivocally stated its intention to finalize the collation of parliamentary election results in the Ablekuma North constituency, dismissing calls for a re-run as premature. This disputed election, held in December 2024, has remained unresolved due to disruptions and disagreements surrounding the collation process, leaving the constituency without a parliamentary representative for over six months. The EC’s Deputy Chairperson for Corporate Affairs, Dr. Bossman Asare, addressed Parliament, emphasizing the commission’s commitment to exhausting all available avenues to retrieve and validate results from the three remaining polling stations before considering a re-run as a last resort. This stance underscores the EC’s dedication to preserving the integrity of the original vote and avoiding the cost and potential divisiveness of a repeat election.
The Ablekuma North constituency, known for its historically competitive political landscape, has been at the center of this electoral impasse. Following the December elections, the collation process was halted due to several complications, including security concerns and disputes over the authenticity of pink sheets, the official documents recording vote tallies. This prolonged delay has created uncertainty and frustration among constituents, prompting demands for resolution and speculation about the possibility of a re-run. However, the EC maintains that a re-run should only be considered after all other avenues for completing the original count have been exhausted. Dr. Asare’s statement before Parliament served to clarify the EC’s position and reassure the public of its commitment to due process.
The EC’s current efforts focus on securing cooperation from key stakeholders, including political party representatives and the Ghana Police Service, to facilitate the collation of the outstanding results. These three polling stations hold the key to determining the legitimate victor of the election, and the EC has emphasized the importance of ensuring a transparent and secure environment for completing the process. Earlier requests for parliamentary support in providing security for EC officials underscore the commission’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the collation process and protecting its personnel from potential threats or interference. The EC’s insistence on adherence to established procedures, including the acceptance of scanned pink sheets and verification of all original tally sheets, further demonstrates its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the election.
The extended delay in declaring a winner for Ablekuma North has generated considerable public and political pressure. Constituents have expressed concerns about the lack of representation in Parliament, while observers have urged both patience and adherence to legal processes. The EC’s steadfast refusal to consider a re-run at this juncture highlights its determination to uphold the original vote, recognizing the cost and potential disruption that a new election would entail. This commitment to due process reinforces public trust in the electoral system and minimizes the risk of further political instability.
The EC’s actions demonstrate a commitment to transparency. They have repeatedly emphasized their intention to keep both Parliament and the general public informed about the progress of the collation process. By maintaining open communication and providing regular updates, the EC aims to reassure stakeholders that the process is being handled fairly and efficiently. This commitment to transparency builds public confidence and reduces the potential for speculation and misinformation to further complicate the situation. The EC’s proactive communication strategy reflects a dedication to democratic principles and accountability to the electorate.
In summary, the Electoral Commission of Ghana remains steadfast in its commitment to finalizing the 2024 parliamentary election results for Ablekuma North. They are prioritizing the collation of outstanding results from the three remaining polling stations before considering a re-run. This approach underscores the EC’s dedication to upholding the integrity of the original vote and avoiding the potential disruption and expense of a new election. By engaging with stakeholders, maintaining transparency, and adhering to established procedures, the EC strives to ensure a fair and credible outcome for the Ablekuma North constituency, ultimately reinforcing public trust in Ghana’s democratic processes.
