The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced its intention to legally challenge the parliamentary election results declared by the Electoral Commission (EC) for the Akwatia, Fanteakwa North, and Suhum constituencies. These declarations, made on December 12th at the National Police Training School (NPTS) in Tesano, all favored the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The NDC’s primary contention revolves around the legality of the process, specifically the venue of the declarations and the authority of the Greater Accra Regional EC office to make pronouncements on constituencies outside its jurisdiction. The NDC argues that these declarations should have been made within the respective regions where the constituencies are located, in accordance with established electoral procedures and regulations. This perceived breach of protocol forms the core of their legal challenge.
The NDC’s Deputy Director of Legal Affairs, George Loh, articulated the party’s position, emphasizing their view that the declarations made at the NPTS are illegal. He reiterated that even if the collation process was properly conducted, the Greater Accra Regional EC office lacked the legal standing to declare the results for constituencies outside its jurisdiction. This jurisdictional overreach, according to the NDC, renders the entire process flawed and the resulting declarations invalid. The party views the EC’s actions as a significant deviation from established electoral law and a potential threat to the integrity of the electoral process. This firm stance underscores the NDC’s commitment to pursuing legal redress to rectify what they perceive as a significant procedural error.
The NDC’s decision to challenge the results stems from their belief that adherence to established legal procedures is paramount in ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process. By choosing to contest the declarations, the NDC aims to uphold the integrity of Ghana’s electoral system and prevent any precedents that might compromise future elections. Their legal challenge seeks to clarify the proper procedures for declaring election results and to ensure that the EC operates within its legally defined boundaries. This, they argue, is crucial to maintaining public trust in the electoral process and ensuring the democratic will of the people is accurately reflected.
The NDC’s commitment to challenging these results signifies their dedication to pursuing legal avenues to address their grievances. By taking this matter to court, the party aims to obtain a legal determination on the validity of the declarations made at the NPTS. They seek a judicial review that will clarify the appropriate venue for such declarations and reaffirm the importance of adhering to established electoral regulations. This legal action underscores the NDC’s belief in the rule of law and their willingness to employ legal mechanisms to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
The legal challenge against the EC’s declarations represents a significant development in the aftermath of the Ghanaian parliamentary elections. The outcome of this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for the composition of parliament and the balance of power in the country. The NDC’s decision to pursue this matter through the courts underscores the importance they place on adherence to due process and the rule of law. The judicial proceedings will provide a platform for both sides to present their arguments and for the court to determine the legality of the contested declarations.
The case is also likely to set a precedent for future electoral disputes and further clarify the powers and limitations of the EC. It will be crucial to observe how the courts interpret the relevant electoral laws and regulations in this instance. The judgment will not only impact the specific constituencies in question but will also provide guidance for the conduct of future elections and the resolution of electoral disputes. This case highlights the critical role of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law and ensuring the integrity of democratic processes in Ghana.
