The Electoral Commission’s (EC) attempt to finalize the parliamentary election results for the Ablekuma-North constituency has been marred by violence and procedural irregularities, leaving the constituency without representation in the 9th Parliament. A planned continuation of the recollation exercise, scheduled for January 8, 2025, at the Greater Accra Regional Office, was abruptly called off after an attack on the venue. This latest incident underscores the deep-seated tensions and challenges surrounding the electoral process in this particular constituency.
The chaotic scene unfolded as party supporters, frustrated by the protracted delays and perceived lack of transparency, forced their way into the collation center, vandalizing property and demanding the declaration of their preferred candidate as the winner. The breakdown in security, evidenced by the absence of the usual police barricades and limited security presence, contributed to the escalation of the situation. This lapse in security stands in stark contrast to previous recollation exercises, where access to the EC office was tightly controlled.
The root of the problem lies in the inability to validate results from a significant number of polling stations. Five previous attempts to recollate the results have proven inconclusive due to the mysterious disappearance of original statement of results sheets from 62 polling stations. This missing documentation has become the crux of the dispute, fueling distrust and accusations of manipulation from both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The NDC has advocated for a complete re-run of the elections in the affected polling stations, arguing that the missing results cast doubt on the integrity of the entire process. They contend that a fresh election is the only way to ensure a fair and credible outcome. The EC, however, has rejected this proposal, likely due to the logistical challenges and the potential for further unrest. The NPP, on the other hand, insists that their candidate has already secured a clear victory based on their own independent collation of the available results. They claim a margin of over 300 votes, further complicating the already contentious situation.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the resignation of the Returning Officer, Mr. Vincent Obeng, who cited “frustration” as the reason for abandoning the process. This unprecedented step highlights the immense pressure and difficulty faced by election officials in the midst of such highly charged political disputes. The absence of a Returning Officer further impedes the resolution of the impasse and raises questions about the continuity and impartiality of the electoral process.
The situation in Ablekuma-North underscores the fragility of democratic processes when faced with procedural irregularities and partisan tensions. The failure to resolve the electoral dispute not only disenfranchises the constituents of Ablekuma-North but also undermines public trust in the electoral system. The EC faces a daunting task in finding a path forward that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders and ensures a credible and peaceful resolution. A transparent and inclusive investigation into the missing results sheets is crucial to rebuilding trust and preventing future incidents. Moreover, bolstering security measures for future electoral processes is essential to prevent further disruptions and ensure the safety of electoral officials and participants. The continuing vacancy in the 9th Parliament serves as a stark reminder of the unresolved conflict and the urgent need for a solution that upholds the principles of democratic governance. The stakes are high, and the EC’s handling of this situation will have significant implications for the future of elections in Ghana. The prolonged uncertainty and lack of representation for Ablekuma-North necessitate a swift and decisive response to restore confidence in the electoral process and ensure the democratic rights of the constituency’s citizens.
