The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has initiated a fresh round of nominations for the parliamentary by-election in the Tamale Central Constituency. This decision follows an unusual turn of events where two out of the three initially nominated candidates withdrew their candidacies shortly after the close of the first nomination period, leaving a single contender. This situation triggered a constitutional provision necessitating a reopening of the nomination process to ensure a contested election.
The initial nomination period, which ended on September 10, 2025, saw three candidates successfully file their nominations. However, the subsequent withdrawal of two candidates created a scenario where the by-election would have effectively been uncontested. Article 50(2) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana addresses such situations, stipulating that if more than one candidate is initially nominated, but only one remains before the election, a new ten-day nomination period must be opened. This provision aims to uphold the democratic principle of offering voters a genuine choice among competing candidates. This ensures that the electoral process remains competitive and gives constituents the opportunity to choose from a range of representatives rather than having a single candidate elected by default.
In compliance with the constitutional mandate, the EC has scheduled a new nomination period from September 12 to 21, 2025. This ten-day window provides prospective candidates ample time to express their interest and complete the necessary procedures for nomination. The EC has designated the Tamale Metropolitan Office as the designated location for receiving nomination forms. These forms can be submitted between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. each day during the stipulated nomination period. This arrangement provides flexibility for potential candidates and facilitates a smooth and efficient nomination process. The Commission has also made the nomination forms available for download from their official website, www.ec.gov.gh, further simplifying the process for interested individuals.
The EC has outlined specific guidelines for submitting nomination forms. Candidates can either submit the forms personally or delegate this task to their proposer or seconder. This flexibility accommodates various logistical circumstances candidates may face. Each nomination requires endorsement from two registered voters within the constituency, designated as the proposer and seconder. Further, the nomination needs to be supported by 18 additional registered voters from the Tamale Central Constituency. This requirement ensures community support and involvement in the candidate selection process. Accompanying the completed nomination forms, candidates are required to submit two recent passport-sized photographs with a red background, adhering to standard identification protocols. These photographs facilitate easy identification and prevent confusion among candidates.
The EC has established a nomination fee structure to cover administrative costs. Male candidates are required to pay a fee of GH₵10,000, while female candidates and persons with disabilities benefit from a reduced fee of GH₵7,500. This differentiated fee structure encourages greater participation from women and individuals with disabilities in the electoral process. Additionally, all nomination forms must be submitted in quadruplicate, ensuring adequate copies for record-keeping and distribution to relevant parties. This requirement ensures transparency and accountability throughout the nomination process.
The EC emphasizes the importance of adhering to these guidelines and meeting the stipulated deadlines. To ensure wide dissemination of information, the Commission urges all stakeholders, particularly prospective candidates and the public, to familiarize themselves with the procedures and timelines. This transparent communication underscores the EC’s commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections. The reopening of nominations provides a second opportunity for aspiring candidates to step forward and contest the by-election, thereby ensuring a competitive race and upholding the democratic principles enshrined in the Ghanaian constitution. This renewed process underscores the EC’s commitment to facilitating a vibrant democracy and ensuring that the people of Tamale Central have the opportunity to choose their representative from a field of contenders.
