The National Peace Council (NPC) of Ghana has stepped in to clarify the confusion surrounding a suspended vote re-collation exercise, emphasizing the need for peaceful dialogue and adherence to legal processes. The exercise, which took place at the Tesano Police Training School in Accra, was initiated by the Electoral Commission (EC) and not by any political party or the Ghana Police Service, as some had speculated. This clarification comes amidst rising tensions following the December 9, 2024, general elections and disputes over the results in several constituencies. The suspension of the re-collation process underscores the fragility of the post-election environment and the urgent need for consensus-building among political actors. The NPC is actively engaging with key stakeholders to facilitate a peaceful resolution and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
The disputed re-collation exercise focused on four constituencies: Suhum, Nsawam Adoagyiri, Fanteakwa North, and Akwatia. These areas have been hotspots of contention since the initial collation of results, with allegations of irregularities and challenges to the outcomes. The EC’s decision to conduct a re-collation at the Tesano Police Training School was intended to address these concerns and ensure accuracy in the final tallies. However, the process was met with resistance from certain political parties, particularly the National Democratic Congress (NDC), leading to its eventual suspension. The NDC, led by National Chairman Asiedu Nketiah, publicly criticized the re-collation, questioning its legal basis and expressing concerns about transparency.
The NPC’s intervention aims to de-escalate the situation and guide the stakeholders toward a constructive resolution. In a public statement, the council urged all political parties to channel their grievances through established legal channels, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law in addressing electoral disputes. The NPC also called on the EC to convene an urgent meeting of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC), a platform for dialogue and collaboration between the EC and political parties. This meeting, which would include representatives from all political parties and other key stakeholders, is intended to foster open communication, address concerns, and build consensus on the way forward.
The NPC’s confirmation that the EC initiated the re-collation exercise aims to dispel misinformation and build trust in the process. This clarification is crucial in addressing the suspicions and accusations that have fueled tensions between political factions. By underscoring the EC’s role and distancing the police and other parties from the initiation of the process, the NPC seeks to create a more neutral environment for dialogue and problem-solving. This emphasis on transparency and adherence to established procedures is essential for ensuring public confidence in the electoral system and promoting peaceful acceptance of the final results.
The current situation highlights the delicate balance required to manage post-election disputes and maintain stability. The NPC’s proactive engagement underscores the critical role of neutral bodies in mediating conflicts and fostering communication between competing interests. The call for IPAC meetings provides a structured platform for addressing grievances and finding common ground. The success of these efforts will depend on the willingness of all parties to engage in good-faith negotiations and prioritize the national interest over partisan politics. A peaceful resolution is crucial for upholding democratic principles and preserving the stability of Ghana’s political landscape.
Moving forward, the focus must remain on ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process that respects the rights of all stakeholders. The NPC’s continued engagement with relevant parties and its emphasis on legal channels for dispute resolution are crucial steps in this direction. The upcoming IPAC meeting, if convened promptly and conducted in a spirit of cooperation, could provide a significant opportunity to break the current deadlock and pave the way for a peaceful and conclusive outcome to the electoral process. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the will of the people is respected and that the transition of power, if necessary, occurs smoothly and democratically. The NPC’s role as a mediator and advocate for peace remains vital in navigating this challenging period and safeguarding the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions.
