KEY POINTS
- EC says re-collation ensures rightful MPs-elect are declared.
- 12 constituencies faced disruptions; 10 resolved, 2 remain pending.
- Precedents cited from 2004 elections to support re-collation decision.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has justified its decision to re-collate and re-declare results in several constituencies, ensuring that rightful Members of Parliament (MPs)-elect are declared. At a press conference in Accra, Deputy EC Chair Dr. Bossman Asare stated that the Commission cannot uphold any illegality, citing irregularities during initial collation processes.
Dr. Asare dismissed claims that the EC lacks authority for such actions, pointing to precedents in Ghana’s electoral history, including similar actions in the 2004 elections.
“It is essential that declarations follow due process,” he said. “The Commission will not uphold results tainted by disruptions or threats of violence.”
Security and irregularities prompt re-collation
The re-collation exercise covers 12 constituencies where disruptions marred the initial collation process. So far, 10 constituencies have been resolved, including Fanteakwa North, Akwatia, Suhum, and Tema Central. Two constituencies, Ablekuma North and Dome Kwabenya, remain unresolved due to security concerns.
According to Graphic Online, the EC collaborated with the Ghana Police Service and the Election Security Task Force to ensure a safe environment for re-collation. As a precaution, outstanding results are being collated in Accra.
Dr. Asare explained that some collation centers faced threats involving weapons, while others lacked complete polling station results. “Such incidents cannot constitute legal outcomes, and the Commission is committed to addressing these irregularities,” he said.
Historical precedents support EC actions
Dr. Asare cited the 2004 elections as a precedent for re-collation and re-declaration. During those elections, disruptions in constituencies like Zabzugu-Tatale and Tolon prompted re-collation under heightened security measures.
“These precedents underline the Commission’s responsibility to ensure accurate and fair outcomes,” he said.
He emphasized that the EC remains neutral, with its primary role being to reflect the will of the people. “The Commission does not determine who becomes President or MP. That decision lies solely with the people of Ghana,” Dr. Asare said.
He called on stakeholders to support the EC in concluding the process, ensuring that rightful MPs-elect are seated in Parliament to represent their constituents effectively.
