The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Amenfi Central Constituency has recently voiced strong objections to the Electoral Commission’s (EC) decision to disqualify their parliamentary candidate, Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe. At a press conference led by Constituency Secretary Fiifi Sangmoah on October 29, the party condemned the EC’s actions as undemocratic and unconstitutional, claiming the decision was instigated. This controversy traces back to the May 13, 2023 parliamentary primaries, where Madam Cudjoe emerged as the clear winner. However, a group dissatisfied with the election outcome filed a lawsuit leading to an interlocutory injunction that barred her from claiming her position as the duly elected candidate pending court adjudication. In response to this legal challenge, the NDC’s Functional Executive Committee annulled the May election results and organized new primaries.
On September 8, 2024, fresh elections took place under the supervision of the EC, resulting in Madam Gyan Cudjoe’s victory once again, reinforcing her position within the party. According to the NDC, the outcome of this second election should annul the earlier contest from May, making any claims against her candidacy irrelevant. Despite the party’s assertions about the legitimacy and transparency of the September primaries, the EC went ahead to disqualify her based on the injunction related to the annulled May elections. This decision sparked outrage among NDC members, who assert that it reflects gross incompetence on the part of the EC.
Fiifi Sangmoah articulated the party’s determination to confront this injustice, declaring that the NDC would not accept the EC’s disqualification of Madam Cudjoe. The party leaders emphasized that the September primary, conducted with the oversight of the EC, should take precedence over the annulled May primary. They argued that their candidate’s legitimacy was restored with the new elections and criticized the EC for failing to acknowledge this fact. Sangmoah’s remarks highlighted the perception that the EC’s actions are politically motivated, aimed at destabilizing the NDC’s chances in the upcoming elections.
Asserting their commitment to fight for justice, the NDC demanded that the EC restore Madam Gyan Cudjoe’s name to the ballot papers for the December 7, 2024 elections. Sangmoah stated that the NDC would only recognize the results if Madam Cudjoe participated as a candidate. This ultimatum underscores the high stakes involved for the party in the upcoming electoral process. The NDC is counting on both the party loyalists and the general electorate to rally behind their rightful candidate to reclaim what they believe is a stolen opportunity.
The NDC leadership also expressed gratitude to their supporters for their unwavering trust and dedication, emphasizing the importance of unity against perceived injustices. They reassured party members that their efforts to resolve this situation would continue in collaboration with regional and national executives. The overall message conveyed in the press conference was one of resilience and determination to restore what the NDC perceives as the people’s choice and democratic rights.
In summary, the NDC’s response to the EC’s disqualification of Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe illustrates a significant political conflict that has the potential to impact the upcoming elections in Ghana. The party’s fervent defense of its nominee points to broader issues of electoral integrity and governance, as they seek to mobilize supporters around a perceived fight for their democracy. With tensions high, the ensuing weeks will be crucial in determining not only the fate of the NDC’s candidate but also the larger electoral landscape as Ghanaians head towards the December 2024 elections.
