The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has set the stage for the upcoming Council of State elections, a crucial component of the nation’s democratic framework. The elections, scheduled for Tuesday, February 11, 2025, will be held in designated venues across all regional capitals, with specific locations yet to be finalized. This electoral process aims to select Regional Representatives who will form part of the esteemed Council of State, a body enshrined in the 1992 Constitution, specifically under Article 89, Paragraph (C), Clause (2). This constitutional provision mandates the election of representatives from each of Ghana’s regions to ensure regional representation in the Council.
The EC has outlined a clear timeline for candidate nominations, a critical preliminary step in the electoral process. Aspiring candidates can obtain nomination forms from the EC’s regional offices beginning Tuesday, January 28, 2025. The deadline for submission of completed nomination forms is Friday, January 31, 2025. This concise four-day window emphasizes the importance of timely action for those seeking to participate in the elections. The Commission has also provided specific hours for submission, between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day, to ensure efficient processing of nominations.
To ensure clarity and accessibility, the EC has stipulated specific requirements for the nomination process. Each prospective candidate must submit their completed nomination form along with two identical passport-style photographs. These photographs must be recent, showing a clear frontal view of the candidate’s face and ears, set against a red background. This standardized format ensures uniformity and facilitates efficient processing of the nominations. Furthermore, the EC emphasizes the importance of adhering to these guidelines to avoid any potential disqualification.
Beyond the individual candidate’s requirements, the nomination process involves community endorsement. Each nomination requires the support of two registered voters from the candidate’s respective region, who will act as proposer and seconder. Additionally, the candidate must secure the backing of twenty other registered voters from the same region, demonstrating a broader base of support within their constituency. This requirement highlights the importance of community engagement and ensures that candidates possess a degree of local recognition and support.
The EC has streamlined the process by making nomination forms readily available for download on their official website, www.ec.gov.gh. This digital accessibility aims to facilitate wider participation and reduce logistical barriers for potential candidates. The forms must be completed in triplicate, ensuring that all necessary parties, including the candidate, the EC’s regional office, and potentially other relevant bodies, retain copies for their records.
In summary, the EC’s announcement signals the commencement of the electoral process for the Council of State. The carefully planned schedule, specific requirements for nominations, and emphasis on accessibility reflect the EC’s commitment to conducting a transparent and efficient election. The detailed guidelines provided to potential candidates, coupled with the public announcement, underscore the importance of this electoral process in upholding Ghana’s democratic values and ensuring regional representation at the highest levels of governance. The Council of State plays a vital advisory role to the President, and the election of its members is a significant event in the Ghanaian political landscape. The EC’s announcement serves as a call to action for qualified individuals to participate in this democratic process and contribute to the nation’s governance.
