Dr. Peter Boamah Otukornor, formerly the Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has publicly pledged that the NDC will initiate an inquiry into the conduct of the Electoral Commission (EC) if they return to power. His remarks were prompted by the disenfranchisement of residents from the areas of Santrokofi, Akpafu, Likpe, and Lolobi (collectively known as SALL) during the 2020 electoral process. Speaking on the Okay FM program ‘Ade Akye Abia’, Otukornor articulated his belief that the EC intentionally obstructed the citizens of SALL from electing a parliamentary representative, an act he views as a significant infringement on their constitutional rights.
Citing Article 47 (1) of the Ghanaian Constitution, Otukornor underscored the E.C.’s obligation to establish constituencies necessary for parliamentary elections. He argues that the Commission failed to execute this vital responsibility, particularly in relation to the SALL communities during the 2020 elections. He pointedly observed that the Constitution makes no provisions indicating that the creation of a new district by the Ministry of Local Government should impact the EC’s duty to create constituencies. Instead, he insisted that the Commission could have easily conducted the parliamentary elections using constituencies as defined in their own previous establishment from the 2016 election cycle.
Moreover, Otukornor emphasized the gravity of the situation, asserting that due to the EC’s negligence in adhering to constitutional stipulations, the residents of SALL were effectively left without parliamentary representation. He criticized the EC’s inaction as a notable failure that needs to be rectified by a future NDC government. The former deputy secretary expressed deep concerns over the violation of citizens’ rights and the importance of ensuring representation for all regions, including marginalized areas like SALL.
He described the actions of the EC as “wholly unacceptable” and flagged potential infractions against Articles 47 (5) and 47 (6) of the Constitution, which further illustrate the legal responsibilities of the Commission in the electoral process. Otukornor’s assertions reflect a broader discontent with the EC’s handling of the electoral mechanics, particularly regarding the transparency and fairness of the electoral process in Ghana.
By advocating for an investigation into the EC’s actions, Otukornor aims to shed light on what he sees as systemic failures within the electoral framework that have disenfranchised certain communities. His call for accountability suggests a commitment to rectify perceived injustices and restore democratic principles, ensuring that all citizens have equal access to representation and electoral participation. This stance not only resonates with the immediate concerns of residents of SALL but also speaks to a larger issue of electoral integrity in Ghana’s political landscape.
In summary, Dr. Otukornor’s emphatic stance on the need for an inquiry into the EC following the 2020 elections underscores ongoing tensions surrounding electoral processes in Ghana. His pledge to investigate reflects a commitment to uphold constitutional rights and ensure fairness in future elections, particularly for marginalized communities. As he articulates the grievances of the SALL residents, his assertions call for a balancing of power and accountability within Ghana’s electoral system that is vital for democracy.
