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Tag: voting

  • Ghanaian voters want presidential term extended to five years – InfoAnalytics

    Ghanaian voters want presidential term extended to five years – InfoAnalytics

    The Constitutional Review Commission’s report calling for an increase in Ghana’s presidential term in office to five years has received massive support from Ghanaians, according to a new poll by Global InfoAnalytics.


    The poll, conducted between December 1 and December 21, revealed that out of the 13,495 voters sampled, 57 percent support the move, while 36 percent oppose it. However, seven percent of respondents neither supported nor opposed the proposal.

    Ten percent of respondents said they had no opinion. Methods used for the survey included web-based questionnaires, telephone interviews, and face-to-face interviews.

    Meanwhile, public opinion suggests that younger candidates should be allowed to run for president, with many respondents viewing a lower minimum age as a positive or acceptable change.


    The Constitutional Review Committee, chaired by Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, has proposed a five-year presidential term, up from the current four-year term, to lower the cost and disruption of elections and give governments more time to implement policies.

    On Monday, December 22, Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh presented the committee’s final report to President John Dramani Mahama. The report proposes far-reaching reforms to Ghana’s Constitution, including a leaner executive and stronger independent institutions.


    What does Ghana’s 1992 Constitution say about the presidential term? Under the Constitution, a President may serve a maximum of two terms, with each term lasting four years.
    Article 66 of the 1992 Constitution states as follows:


    (1) A person elected as President shall, subject to clause (3) of this article, hold office for a term of four years beginning from the date on which he is sworn in as President.
    (2) A person shall not be elected to hold office as President of Ghana for more than two terms.
    (3) The office of President shall become vacant—(a) on the expiration of the period specified in clause (1) of this article; or(b) if the incumbent dies, resigns from office, or ceases to hold office under article 69 of this Constitution.
    (4) The President may, by writing signed by him and addressed to the Speaker of Parliament, resign from his office as President.
    Additionally, the committee has also proposed that Members of Parliament (MPs) should stop doubling as ministers in government.


    However, members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) insist that President Mahama intends to seek a third term.

    Although the President, in late August, reaffirmed his commitment to Ghana’s two-term presidential limit—making it clear that he has no intention of extending his tenure—the Minority contends that the incumbent government is plotting a dubious move to keep President Mahama in power beyond the next term.


    During a bilateral meeting with Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam as part of his three-day state visit, President Mahama dismissed allegations that his government is plotting to stay beyond the constitutional limit, reiterating that he will not be on the ballot in 2028.


    After months of holding onto these claims, the Minority Caucus yesterday staged a protest in Parliament, chanting, “No Third Term, Mahama! We want peace, Mahama,” citing growing calls for a third term for the incumbent President from some members of the NDC, particularly on social media.


    Reacting to the protest, the Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, described the Minority’s actions as political mischief intended to stir public fear and distract from substantive national issues.

    Meanwhile, Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, Alhassan Suhuyini,has argued that the four-year term given to Ghanaian presidents restricts the country’s development, as they are unable to deliver long-term policies and fully implement major development projects within the limited time frame.

    “I agree with the thinking that the four-year period has not helped us that much, and it is because of our level of development and the deficit that we have,” he said.

  • Akwatia by-election: NPP executive slapped by NDC vice chairman’s aide amid heated scuffle

    Akwatia by-election: NPP executive slapped by NDC vice chairman’s aide amid heated scuffle

    The third National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alhaji Osman Masawudu, has been slapped following an intense confrontation with the aide of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Vice Chairman, Chief Sofo Azorka.

    The incident occurred today, Tuesday, September 2, during the ongoing by-election at Akwatia, Eastern Region.

    Alhaji Osman Masawudu has reported that the scuffle began while he was monitoring the ongoing election, specifically at the Akwatia Zongo area.

    According to him, before the incident, the National Democratic Congress’s Vice Chairman’s aide had threatened to cane him.

    “I have been assigned to supervise and monitor the election at Akwatia Zongo. In fact, I was granting an interview when a national vice chairman of the NDC, Azorka — because of ignorance — came straight to where I was granting an interview to attack me.

    “This incident happened in the presence of the police. He said it clearly that today he will make sure that I will be caned here, myself and Afenyo-Markin,” Masawudu recounted.

    However, police personnel present at the scene managed to restore calm.

    Earlier today, a video circulating showed an individual being carried into a police van after he was arrested by the police for reportedly destroying a poster of a contestant in the Akwatia by-election.

    More than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia, in the Eastern Region, are casting their ballots today, Tuesday, September 2, to select a Member of Parliament (MP) to represent the Constituency in Parliament.

    Today’s polls have become necessary following the sudden passing of the sitting MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, which occurred on Monday, July 7, 2025. Ernest Yaw Kumi had only served for six months as the MP for the area.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has also selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.

    However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP) has been disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. In this regard, the disqualified candidate has filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.

    He has therefore challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him because he failed to submit his tax clearance certificate. Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused his inability to provide the required document.

    Additionally, he maintains that he has completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He has therefore prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.

    Meanwhile, over 5,500 police personnel have been deployed to Akwatia to ensure law and order during the by-election. Briefing the media on the Police’s preparation ahead of the by-election on Friday, August 30, the Director-General of Operations, COP Dr. Vance Baba Gariba, noted that to ensure effective coverage, the constituency has been grouped into nine security zones.

    He disclosed that 600 officers have been fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise.The Director General of Operations has assured that the military will only assist should matters get beyond control.

    “The military will be only on standby.As and when we need them, then we will deploy them, but if we don’t need the military, then we will not request for the deployment of the military. They are only going to be on standby,” COP Gariba stated.

    Former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has encouraged Akwatia constituents to participate in the by-election without being intimidated by the security presence.

    Engaging with the media on Monday, August 25, he indicated that the security presence is to ensure that the electoral process is not tampered with.

    Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have allegedly held back from signing a peace pact ahead of the Akwatia by-election.

    This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.

    NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.

    Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu, said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.

    In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons and the confiscation of nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.

    The seized firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barreled gun. This was announced in a statement shared on the Command’s official Facebook page earlier today.

    The statement noted that, “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process.”

    The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia. A search of the vehicle uncovered a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks. Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license.

    He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification. The statement further revealed that another operation led to the arrest of suspect Joshua Amenuku, from whom 15 live cartridges were retrieved.

    A subsequent search at his residence uncovered an Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live cartridges.

    “In a separate operation at the Akwatia Y-Junction snap check, the Police arrested suspect Joshua Amenuku after retrieving 15 live BB cartridges from him. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live BB cartridges,” the police added.

    Later that evening, the police intercepted a Toyota Hilux pickup at the Boadua Livingstone snap checkpoint and arrested suspects Enoch Asiedu and Lu Youyan, a Chinese national, after retrieving four live BB cartridges from the vehicle.

    According to the statement, “Preliminary interrogation revealed that the ammunition allegedly belonged to their employer, one Mohammed, identified as the owner of the vehicle. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest suspect Mohammed for interrogation, while the two suspects remain in custody assisting investigations.”

    In another operation on Friday, August 23, police officers on duty at the Boadua Livingstone Junction snap checkpoint arrested suspect Pieterson Joseph after retrieving one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and 46 AAA and BB cartridges from his vehicle. The suspect admitted ownership of the firearm.

    On the same day, officers on snap-check duty at Staff Village Boadua intercepted a Toyota Tundra pickup with registration number WR 5535-13 traveling from Asamankese towards Boadua.

    A search conducted on the vehicle revealed three pump-action guns, including one Pardus pump-action, one Huglu Atroe pump-action, and one other pump-action gun.

    Suspect Stephen Nkansah claimed ownership of two of the firearms and stated that the third belonged to his chief. Nkansah has since been arrested and detained for investigation.

    Following these successful operations, the police assured the public and all stakeholders that they would intensify efforts to ensure the integrity of the elections as well as maintain peace and security in the region ahead of the polls.

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured that his outfit will remain vigilant to avert any form of misconduct or electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election.

    Engaging the media, the IGP stated that his officers are fully prepared. “We want to assure Ghanaians that the police are ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia.

    We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation, and then our eyes are red for Akwatia, and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.

    The IGP also cautioned political parties participating in the by-election against mobilising supporters to disrupt the electoral process.

    “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he said.

  • Akwatia by-election slated for Tuesday, September 2

    Akwatia by-election slated for Tuesday, September 2

    The Electoral Commission (EC) is expected to hold a by-election in the Akwatia Constituency, Eastern Region, to select a Member of Parliament (MP) for the area on Tuesday, September 2.

    The election has become necessary following the death of the constituency’s representative, Ernest Yaw Kumi. The Akwatia Member of Parliament was reported dead on Monday, July 7. On Monday, 4 August, balloting will be held by the Electoral Commission to ensure fairness in how candidates are listed on the ballot paper.

    The two major political parties are gearing themselves up for a by-election. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) will see three individuals contest in the party’s election for the role of Akwatia Constituency parliamentary candidate on Monday, August 4.

    Former Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Henry Boakye, the National Democratic Congress’ Akwatia Constituency Secretary, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, and Erasmus Koney Ali have vied for the position. The submission of nominations will end on Wednesday, July 30. Subsequently, the party will hold its vetting process on Thursday, July 31. To obtain their positions, the parliamentary aspirants will participate in the balloting process on Monday, August 4.

    The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), according to reports, has decided to allow Chief Executive Officer of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, to be its parliamentary candidate. It is reported that the selection of Solomon Kwame Asumadu followed extensive stakeholder consultations that birthed a consensus and prevented the party from having to hold an internal parliamentary election.

    Earlier, there were reports suggesting the widow of the late Member of Parliament, Mrs. Mavis Kumi, had shown interest in the race. However, the Eastern Regional NPP Chairman Jeff Konadu Addo on Tuesday, July 15, emphasized that campaign flyers purporting such claims are false and must be ignored.

    “We wish to categorically state that this information is false, misleading, and should be treated with the utmost contempt it deserves,” Jeff Konadu Addo said.

    Jeff Konadu Addo added that Mrs. Mavis Kumi is not interested in the said position but is focused on mourning the passing of her husband.

    “She has unequivocally communicated that she has no interest in contesting the seat or participating in active politics at this time. Her current focus is to mourn her husband with dignity and in peace,” he further stated.

    On Tuesday, July 8, a delegation from the leadership of Parliament visited the family of the late MP to express their condolences. The team was led by the Leader of the House, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga.

    Other members of the delegation included Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Clerk to Parliament Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, and Ofoase-Ayirebi MP Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, among others.

    Chief of Takrowaso, Osabarima Owusu Nketia I, on Friday afternoon, July 25, led the family of the late Hon. Ernest Kumi, former Member of Parliament for Akwatia Constituency, to pay a courtesy call on the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin.

    The visit was to enable the family to officially inform the Speaker and Parliament of Mr Kumi’s demise. On behalf of Parliament, Speaker Bagbin extended his deepest condolences to the family of the late legislator.

    Speaker Alban Bagbin described the passing of Mr. Ernest Kumi as a profound loss to Parliament and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

    He lauded Mr. Kumi’s commitment to Ghana’s democratic development, noting that his tireless advocacy for his constituents and his steadfast dedication to national progress will be forever remembered and cherished.

    The Speaker also stated that Parliament will work closely with the bereaved family to ensure Mr. Kumi is accorded a befitting burial.

    Prior to his demise, Mr Ernest Kumi was engaged in a legal tussle. Henry Boakye-Yiadom, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate and former Member of Parliament for the constituency, who contested the election results, filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission (EC), Kumi, and the Clerk to Parliament, disputing the outcome of the polls. Official results had declared Kumi victorious with 19,269 votes, while Boakye-Yiadom secured 17,206 votes.

    On January 3, the Koforidua High Court issued an interim injunction restraining Ernest Yaw Kumi from being sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Akwatia. Despite the court’s order, Kumi went ahead with his swearing-in on January 7, 2025.

    His legal team, led by Lawyer Gary Nimako, later sought to overturn the injunction, but the court dismissed their application.

    On February 19, the Koforidua High Court issued a bench warrant for Kumi’s arrest, citing his absence from contempt proceedings and his failure to comply with the earlier injunction.

    Reacting to the development, the Minority in Parliament has condemned the court’s decision, arguing that it was excessive. Speaking to the media, Second Deputy Minority Whip Jerry Ahmed Shaib expressed strong disagreement with the ruling.

    Last month, the Supreme Court overturned the ruling by the Koforidua High Court that convicted Mr Kumi of contempt of court. The court, on Wednesday, June 11, by a 4–1 majority, granted the legislator’s application to overturn the High Court’s ruling.

    In Parliament, Mr Ernest Kumi, who was a first-time member in the 9th Parliament, served on both the Lands and Natural Resources Committee and the House Committee.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for Interior, Mubarak Muntaka, has urged security personnel who will be deployed to oversee the upcoming by-election in Akwatia constituency, Eastern Region, to remain alert while executing their duties.

    He urged them to reflect on the recent violence that occurred during the parliamentary election rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency and work proactively to prevent a recurrence.

    According to him, the government will work to ensure that such dramatic events do not repeat themselves in future elections. The minister made these remarks at the government accountability series in Accra on Monday, July 14.

    “This is also a wake-up call for our security agencies to know that probably what happened [in Ablekuma North]…gives our security agencies the opportunity to even plan better towards Akwatia.

    “All I can assure the people of Akwatia is that we will use Ablekuma North as a case study to review how we operate in Akwatia—to make sure that the citizens are free to cast their votes and express their will without fear or favour,” Muntaka added.

  • Perpetrators of Ablekuma North violence in 2024 still at large – EC

    Perpetrators of Ablekuma North violence in 2024 still at large – EC

    The Deputy Commissioner of the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr Bossman Asare, has revealed that justice is yet to be served to individuals who disrupted the 2024 Parliamentary elections at the Ablekuma North constituency.

    “None have been arrested to date, although some of the perpetrators were captured in videos in circulation on social media.

    “As a result of inadequate security presence at the collation centre, party supporters invaded the offices and destroyed properties of the commission, including furniture, doors, and louvre blades,” he added.

    In 2024, some individuals affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) or the National Democratic Congress (NDC) engaged in a violent confrontation, halting voting processes.

    The chaos led to the destruction of electoral materials and properties of the EC, leading to the suspension of results in the constituency.

    However, attempts to collate results gathered around that time has been futile.

    To resolve this, the EC will today hold a rerun election in 19 polling stations of the Ablekuma North to provide its constituents a representative after the 2024 parliamentary elections.

    After the 2024 polls, Ablekuma North remained the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP, due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges.

    These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified pink sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    The Electoral Commission (EC), after extensive deliberations, in July noted that it will hold the rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

    The EC arrived at this decision after it met with the representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, July 1.

    The EC’s decision to hold a rerun met opposition from the NPP, leading the party to head to court for an interlocutory injunction application. The High Court dismissed the application.

    The NPP noted that it won the 2024 Ablekuma North parliamentary election and, as such, will not participate in the rerun. According to the Deputy General Secretary, Haruna Mohammed, this is so because contesting in the election will set a dangerous precedent and compromise future elections.

    However, the party’s parliamentary candidate, Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, has indicated that she will fully participate in the Parliamentary election

    “I appeal to all the constituents to come out and vote massively for me so the glory of God will manifest. I have put my trust in God, and I know He will not disappoint me. I won the election by 440 votes, and I believe God will let the truth prevail tomorrow,” she stated.

    Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed its decision to participate in the rerun election. The NDC will be represented by Ewurabena Aubyn.

    Greater Accra Regional Director of Elections for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Joshua Alabi, is optimistic that no challenges will be experienced during the election.

    “There were security lapses in the last elections. The EC itself also failed to live up to its bidding in the last elections, but I believe they have done its homework. The security has also done their homework very well, so this time around, the tags we are going to use will have our names on them, which is one of the means too.”

    “I am very much convinced that with the few I have seen on the ground, I don’t think we are going to have the lapses we experienced the last time. If we are able to be on the ground ourselves, we are part of the security, nothing untoward is going to happen, and it is only 19 polling stations. I don’t foresee any challenge. If there is one, the security will take care of them,” he said.

    Ahead of today’s election, the EC called on the Ghana Police Service to provide the needed security to ensure a safe environment for the conduct of the election.

    Deputy Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC) in Charge of Corporate Services, Dr Bossman Asare, has affirmed that the Ghana Police Service and the National Election Security Taskforce have pledged to ensure security before, during, and after the upcoming Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun.

  • 2024 Election: LIVESTREAMING – Declaration of electoral results

    2024 Election: LIVESTREAMING – Declaration of electoral results

    Results for the presidential and parliamentary elections are trickling in since voting officially ended at 5pm on Saturday.

    So far, the NDC has secured Majority in Parliament and the NPP flagbearer, Dr Bawumia, has conceded defeat to the NDC flagbearer, John Mahama.

    Stay tuned for live updates as the counting process gets underway.

  • Voting officially ends, counting underway

    Voting officially ends, counting underway

    Voting for the December 7, 2024, presidential and parliamentary elections has officially ended across all 276 constituencies.

    The elections kicked off early Saturday morning, with citizens eagerly showing up at their polling stations to choose the next president and members of parliament for the country’s 9th Parliament.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has praised the elections as calm, open, and trustworthy.

    Meanwhile, some constituencies reported sporadic cases of violence and instances of electoral fraud.

    The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) have traded accusations of trying to influence the election results.

    With the polls now closed, officials are in the process of sorting and counting the ballots.

  • Voting delayed at Mankessim Anglican School 2 over indelible ink shortage

    Voting delayed at Mankessim Anglican School 2 over indelible ink shortage

    At Mankessim Anglican School 2, voting has been delayed due to the late arrival of indelible inks.

    Electoral Commission (EC) officials are prepared to begin once all materials are in place. Despite the setback, the polling station remains peaceful, with no disruptions reported.

    Security personnel are on-site to maintain order and ensure a safe environment for voters.

    The 2024 general elections are in progress across the country’s 276 constituencies, with 18.8 million eligible voters.

    Thirteen presidential candidates are in the race, including four independents and nine from political parties.

    Of the 18.8 million voters, 459,291 represent 4% of the electorate. Males make up 48% of the voting population, while females account for 52%. The youth, who comprise 55% of the voter base, are expected to play a crucial role in the elections.

    This year’s elections will involve 40,976 polling stations, with 328 already used for Special Voting on December 2 and 5, 2024.

    According to CODEO, the largest civil society organization focused on elections, there are 801 parliamentary candidates vying for 276 seats.

    The presidential race features four independent candidates and nine political party representatives, with nine different parties contesting. In the parliamentary race, 111 independent candidates are competing for seats.

  • Voters report missing names and verification issues at polling stations

    Voters report missing names and verification issues at polling stations

    The 2024 elections have been marked by reports of missing voter names and verification issues across polling stations nationwide, leading to delays and voter frustration.

    In several locations, registered voters discovered their names were absent from the electoral register.

    One such incident occurred at the Old Library polling station in the Ledzokuku Constituency, Greater Accra Region, where confusion broke out due to the alleged omission of names.

    Reports of missing names and verification issues have surfaced across various polling stations during the ongoing 2024 elections, leading to delays and frustration among voters.

    In the Ablekuma Central Constituency, concerns about the accuracy of the voter register have been raised, despite expectations of thorough verification before the elections.

    Other areas, including Tamale Central and Wulensi, have experienced delays due to problems with biometric verification devices, temporarily halting the voting process.

    At the Faith Academy polling station in the Ledzokuku Constituency, voting has been delayed entirely due to malfunctioning biometric devices.

    These delays have created tensions among voters, some of whom are concerned they may be disenfranchised. However, polling officials have reassured voters that efforts are being made to resolve the issues as quickly as possible.

  • TUTAG threatens nationwide demo over galamsey crisis

    TUTAG threatens nationwide demo over galamsey crisis

    The Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has announced its decision to initiate a strike against the pervasive issue of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

    This decision comes on the heels of Organised Labour’s recent move to call off a nationwide strike following governmental intervention.

    In a statement released on October 10, TUTAG expressed its discontent over Organised Labour’s withdrawal from the strike, which occurred without prior consultation or input from its members.

    TUTAG described this unilateral action as “completely unacceptable,” stating, “This unilateral action by some elements within Organised Labour is completely unacceptable. The decision to “chicken out” of a national strike that had the potential to address one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time—galamsey—without consulting the full membership undermines the unity and collective strength of the entire labour movement.

    The association further emphasized that such actions erode the trust and confidence of its members, who expect transparency, solidarity, and commitment to collective efforts.

    “Such actions weaken the resolve of Organised Labour and erode the trust and confidence of members who expect transparency, solidarity, and commitment in advancing our common course.”

    “The fight against galamsey is a national responsibility, and the strength of our labour unions in leading this cause cannot be compromised by the inconsistency and lack of coordination demonstrated by some within Organised Labour. This was a critical moment for us to stand together, defend the future of our environment, and hold accountable those responsible for the devastation caused by illegal mining.

    “Sadly, Organised Labour has squandered this opportunity to present a united front against the destruction of our natural resources and our future deliberations. We strongly condemn this selfish move by Organised Labour, which undermines the collective efforts to safeguard our environment and future generations,” it stated.

    TUTAG condemned Organised Labour’s actions as a wasted opportunity to present a united front against the destruction of natural resources, stating, “Despite the betrayal from some quarters, we stand in solidarity with all unions and bodies who have decided to take action through strikes and demonstrations. We wish to assure them of our continued support. At an Emergency Congress held on Thursday, 10th October 2024, TUTAG has resolved to embark on a strike action. We are initiating the necessary processes under the Labour Act to invoke our right to strike, and we will soon join the call for action”.

    Despite feeling betrayed, TUTAG reaffirmed its commitment to combating galamsey and safeguarding the environment for future generations.

    During an Emergency Congress on October 10, 2024, TUTAG resolved to embark on a strike and is initiating processes under the Labour Act to exercise its right to strike in the near future.

    TUTAG’s demands include the immediate recall of Parliament to revoke Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462, which regulates the granting of mining licenses in environmentally sensitive areas. They call for an immediate halt to issuing new licenses and the withdrawal of all existing licenses for prospecting and mining in forest reserves and areas near water bodies.

    The association is also urging the government to ban all mining activities in these sensitive areas and declare a state of emergency in affected regions. They advocate for the recall of all small-scale mining licenses and the initiation of broad stakeholder consultations for sustainable small-scale mining practices in Ghana.

    Moreover, TUTAG is calling for increased budget allocations to the Ghana Water Company to ensure a sustainable water supply for all citizens, considering the damage illegal mining has inflicted on water bodies.

    They urged all political parties to sign a national pact to ensure sustainable measures are enacted to address the galamsey crisis, transcending party lines.

    TUTAG concluded by urging the government and stakeholders to act swiftly on their demands to protect the environment and restore the faith of Ghanaians in their leadership.

    “We urge all TUTAG members to remain calm and steadfast as we move forward with our plans. Your commitment and support are essential as we continue to engage relevant stakeholders and ensure that our voices are heard in the fight against illegal mining,” it added.

  • Praying on machines unnecessary, make things right – Kwesi Pratt tells EC

    Praying on machines unnecessary, make things right – Kwesi Pratt tells EC

    The Managing Editor of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt, has raised concerns about a recent move by the Electoral Commission (EC) regarding malfunctioning machines in the just ended Limited Voters Registration Exercise.

    On May 8, 2024, a member of the Commission, Rev. Akua Ofori Boateng, was seen addressing ongoing technical issues during the voter registration exercise through prayer.

    Gathering with party agents, Rev. Boateng led a heartfelt prayer, seeking divine intervention for the smooth functioning of registration machines and connectivity.

    See pictures below:

    She stressed the necessity for the machines to operate consistently throughout the day to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to register.

    In her prayer, Rev. Ofori Boateng stated, “We pray for the machines that we are using here, we pray for connectivity, we pray that they will work. We pray that they will work throughout the day so that everybody will have the opportunity to register.”

    However, speaking on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo Show, Kwesi Pratt criticized the Commission’s approach as inadequate.

    He argued that relying solely on prayers cannot restore the EC’s reputation, as many Ghanaians have lost trust in the institution.

    Mr Pratt urged the EC to prioritize upholding the integrity of the country’s electoral process to ensure law and order during the upcoming December polls.

    “The Electoral Commission has a lot to do to redeem its reputation. Take the limited Voter Registration, for example. Besides the incorrect figures, how can an Electoral Commissioner be praying over faulty machines? Praying on the machines is unnecessary. What is important is restoring Ghanaians’ faith in the Commission,” he added.

    Watch video below:

  • You deserve a 5-year ban from voting – Sammy Gyamfi tells Ahiagbah

    You deserve a 5-year ban from voting – Sammy Gyamfi tells Ahiagbah

    National Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has criticized Richard Ahiagbah, Director of Communication for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), suggesting that he should have faced prosecution for his participation in the 2020 general election.

    Gyamfi alleged that Ahiagbah committed a crime by voting in the 2020 election despite his name not being on the voters’ register, and furthermore, he publicly admitted to this offense. He emphasized that electoral laws in the country explicitly prohibit individuals from voting if their names are not listed on the voters’ register.

    “This is a very serious matter. It doesn’t only border on the commission of a crime; it borders on a confession by Richard Ahiagbah that he has committed a crime… Voter registration in Ghana is governed by law. You cannot engage in registration and voting per your own whims and caprices.

    “He himself has confessed to voting in the 2020 elections, both the presidential and parliamentary, when his name was not on the voters’ register. He said that he turned up at the polling station to vote on 7th December 2020, but his name was not on the register. In Ghana, you can’t vote in any public elections unless your name is on the voters’ register,” the NDC national communications officer said during a panel discussion on the Good Morning Ghana programme on Thursday, May 23, 2024.

    He added, “If you check regulation 32 of CI 127, this is what it says: ‘(1) A polling assistant may, before delivering a ballot paper to a person who is to vote at the election, require that person to produce a voter identification card in order to establish that the person is the registered voter whose name and voter identification number and particulars appear in the register. (2) In the absence of a voter identification card, the polling assistant shall identify the name and particulars of the voter as recorded in the Names Reference List… If your name is not on the register, then it means there is no remedy for you; it means your card cannot be authenticated. It is useless. You are not entitled to vote.’”

    Sammy Gyamfi said that the law states that Ahiagbah should have been imprisoned and/or fined and banned from voting for five years after serving his sentence.

    Background:

    Richard Ahiagbah confirmed claims that, despite possessing a legal voter identification card that was granted to him upon completing his voter registration in 2020, his name was not on the register when he went to cast his ballot in an interview with Accra-based Neat FM on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.

    “I voted in the 2020 election. You have to ask officials of the EC why I was able to vote even though my name was not on the register.

    “Because I have a voter’s ID card which bears my name. I got it in 2020 when we were asked to register for a new voters’ register. I have the card, and it has the polling station number where I have always been voting,” he said in the Twi dialect.

    He added, “I went to queue to vote on 7th December 2020, and when it got to my turn, the officials said my name was not on the register. So, I asked why my details were not on the register and showed them my documents.”

    The NPP communications director added that the EC official on election day agreed that he should be allowed to vote, but he does not know why they allowed him to vote even though his name was not on the voters’ register.

    In an interview with Accra-based Neat FM on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, Richard Ahiagbah affirmed that despite possessing a valid voter identification card issued to him after completing his registration in 2020, his name was absent from the voter register when he attempted to cast his vote.

  • EC’s failure at simple mathematics is worrying – Kwesi Pratt

    EC’s failure at simple mathematics is worrying – Kwesi Pratt

    The Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr., has launched a scathing criticism against Electoral Commission (EC) officials regarding errors in figures initially published during the ongoing Limited Voter Registration Exercise.

    He expressed incredulity at the EC’s struggle with the basic task of tallying the total number of registered individuals.

    The Electoral Commission encountered challenges in accurately reporting the total number of registered persons on Days 2 and 3 of the exercise across Ghana’s sixteen regions.

    However, in a press release dated May 12, the EC acknowledged these errors and assured the public that they had been rectified.

    Quoting the EC’s statement, which admitted mistakes in the cumulative totals for days two and three but clarified that regional numbers were accurate, Pratt criticized the commission’s competence on Peacefm’s “Kokrokoo” morning show.

    He questioned how Ghanaians could trust an electoral body that struggled with basic arithmetic, especially during a simple registration exercise marred by numerous issues. Pratt raised concerns about the implications of such errors for future elections.

    Expressing disbelief at the EC’s inability to perform simple addition, Pratt emphasized the importance of accuracy and competence in the electoral process. He highlighted the irony of an Electoral Commission unable to perform basic mathematical operations essential for its function.

    “The Electoral Commission has corrected errors in the previously released daily voter registration numbers. The inaccuracies were in the cumulative totals for days two and three, though the regional numbers were correct. The Upper East’s day three’s total was mistakenly repeated for day four. These have been amended,” the EC’s statement read.

    “Is the Electoral Commission saying that they cannot do simple addition? A whole electoral body like the Electoral Commission cannot do a simple addition. How can Ghanaians repose confidence in you?

    “This is just a registration exercise which has been characterised by abysmal happenings. What then will they do about the general elections when it is held?

    “These errors in the results by the Electoral Commission, how do you explain it? We’ve gone to register names. We have the tallies; simple addition, the Electoral Commission cannot do it…

    “I can’t understand this; a whole Electoral Commission cannot do addition. There is no subtraction, division or multiplication and you can’t do this”, he charged.

  • Registration slip error will not affect voter eligibility – EC

    Registration slip error will not affect voter eligibility – EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has responded to concerns circulating on social media regarding an error on a registration slip.

    The slip in question showed conflicting information, indicating that the individual registered in Kasoa, Central Region, but their district was listed as Ayawaso North, which is in the Greater Accra Region.

    In light of the viral photo, the EC released a statement on Wednesday, May 8, clarifying that the discrepancy on the registration slip does not reflect on the actual Voter Identification card of the concerned applicant.

    The commission emphasized, “The error is confined to the Registration Slip, which is used merely as a reference for instances where an Applicant might need to replace his/her Voter ID Card. Importantly, this error has no bearing on the voter’s eligibility to vote.”

    Meanwhile, due to widespread network challenges on the second day of the ongoing voter registration exercise, the EC has instructed its officers to switch to offline mode.

    “The Commission wishes to inform all its stakeholders and the General Public that some challenges were experienced with the network this afternoon, affecting the Online mode of registration. The Commission has directed its District Officers to switch to the Offline mode of registration beginning tomorrow, the 9th of May, 2024.

    “The Commission apologizes for the delays experienced this afternoon,” the statement concluded.

    Furthermore, the commission assured that if the challenge affects the 21-day exercise, it will ensure an extension to the May 27 deadline.

  • 2024 voters’ registration exercise to start May 7

    2024 voters’ registration exercise to start May 7

    Preparations are underway for the upcoming voters’ registration exercise scheduled to take place nationwide from May 7 to May 27, 2024.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) is set to conduct the exercise at all 268 of its offices, including those in Santrofi, Akpafu, Lolobi, Likpe (SALL) in the Guan Constituency of the Oti Region.

    This critical matter will be a focal point of discussion as the EC convenes with the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) in a crucial meeting in Accra today.

    Following the registration, there will be another nationwide initiative to replace missing voter ID cards, commencing on May 30, 2024.

    Additionally, a reliable source within the EC has revealed to the Daily Graphic that 775 registration centers will be established in remote and riverine areas, managed by registration mobile teams.

    Moreover, registration centers will be set up in 25 public universities across the country. However, no centers will be designated in senior high schools (SHS). Public education campaigns will precede the registration process to ensure widespread awareness among citizens.

    According to the disclosed schedule, the provisional voters’ register will be submitted to political parties between July 9 and July 18, 2024. Subsequently, an exhibition of the voters’ register is scheduled to take place from July 15 to July 24, 2024.

    The final voters’ register is anticipated to be handed over to political parties between August 30 and September 5, 2024.

    In a related development, the EC will oversee a by-election in the Ejisu Constituency on April 30, 2024, to fill the vacancy left by the late Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah, who passed away on March 7, 2024.

    This electoral process aligns with the provisions of Article 112 (5) of the 1992 Constitution, stipulating that a by-election must be held within 60 days of a parliamentary vacancy. Furthermore, Article 112(6) of the 1992 Constitution specifies that a by-election should not occur three months before a general election.

    Looking ahead, the EC’s agenda for the 2024 general election indicates that nominations for presidential and parliamentary candidates will be received from September 9 to 13. This marks the final phase leading up to the culmination of the political season.

    Subsequently, the balloting for positions on the presidential ballot paper will take place on September 23, 2024, followed by parliamentary balloting on September 24, 2024. If all progresses as planned, the EC aims to declare the results of the 2024 presidential polls within three days of the voting process.

  • Election 2024: Presidential results will be declared within 72 hours – EC

    Election 2024: Presidential results will be declared within 72 hours – EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has outlined its plan to announce the results of the presidential election within three days after December 7, 2024, as disclosed in the Commission’s election calendar.

    Although there is no legal requirement for a specific declaration timeframe, the EC aims to ensure the timely release of presidential results, aiming for a maximum of three days.

    Additionally, the election management body has scheduled the opening of nominations for both presidential and parliamentary candidates for the upcoming election from September 9 to September 19.

    “There was no law requiring the EC to declare the results within a specified period, the EC intended to ensure that it would be able to declare the presidential results within a maximum of three days,” the statement stated.

    The provisional voters’ register is set to be submitted to political parties between July 9 and July 18, 2024.

    Balloting for positions on the presidential ballot paper is scheduled for September 23, 2024, providing clarity on the sequence of candidates.

    The EC has also designated December 2 for special voting for selected professionals, with the main election scheduled for December 7, 2024.

  • There is no difference; voting for Bawumia is as voting for Akufo-Addo – Lecturer

    There is no difference; voting for Bawumia is as voting for Akufo-Addo – Lecturer

    A senior lecturer at the University of Ghana (UG), Professor Kobby Mensah, has countered suggestions that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia would bring a distinct leadership style compared to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    In an interview on Neat FM on Thursday, February 15, 2024, Prof. Mensah asserted that he perceives no disparity between Dr. Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, and President Akufo-Addo, despite the vice president’s articulation of his vision for the country.

    He emphasized that, based on the information presented, he did not observe any noteworthy differences that would lead him to believe Dr. Bawumia intends to chart a distinct course from that of President Akufo-Addo if he assumes the presidency.

    “… there is no difference, there is no difference. They are the same. If you vote for Bawumia, you are voting for Akufo-Addo – they are the same.

    “Because when you say you’re coming with your own vision, it is not the programme you mention that would make us see the differentiation. It is your attitude, and the underlining philosophy of the programme you are mentioning that would make me see that you are different,” he said in Twi.

    He highlighted that the differentiation should not only be based on the programs mentioned but also on the attitude and underlying philosophy of those programs.

    Prof. Mensah noted that Dr. Bawumia’s speeches and flamboyancy have not demonstrated a significant shift from his previous support for Nana Addo, indicating that he has not witnessed a fundamental change in vision.

    Prof Mensah added, “Bawumia hasn’t changed the flamboyancy he used to support Nana Addo. I didn’t see any difference between his speech in 2015 and the one he had recently for me to believe that, indeed, he is carrying a new vision. What did he say? You are here talking about AI and the likes, flamboyancy, and he has not achieved any of his promises.”

  • EC never faced technical challenge during District Level Elections – IMANI Africa

    EC never faced technical challenge during District Level Elections – IMANI Africa

    President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, criticized the Electoral Commission (EC) for attributing the recent shortcomings in the District Assembly election to “technical challenges.”

    In his scathing assessment, Cudjoe argues that the EC’s explanation not only lacks sincerity but also reveals deeper-seated issues pertaining to the Commission’s overall planning and transparency.

    Mr Cudjoe brings attention to a noticeable contradiction within the EC’s narrative.

    Despite their earlier assurances of preparedness weeks before the election, the Commission now cites last-minute technical difficulties as the cause of the disruptions.

    “This whole conversation about technical issues for the lapse the EC had cannot be true. You see if they are saying that maybe someone’s name was misspelled or something on the ballot, maybe yes. You can’t tell me that 12 hours or 6 hours to the elections, you didn’t know that you didn’t have all the accoutrement.

    “These are not technical issues, they are just blatant disregard for the processes, it should have been ready two weeks earlier”.

    This incongruity, according to Cudjoe, suggests a fundamental flaw in the Commission’s ability to anticipate and address logistical challenges in a timely manner.

    The seasoned analyst dismisses the notion that the encountered issues were purely technical, asserting that the revelation of insufficient resources hours before the election demonstrates a blatant disregard for established electoral processes.

    Mr Cudjoe contends that such essential components should have been adequately prepared at least two weeks in advance.

    Furthermore, he took the EC to task for what he perceives as a “headstrong” approach and a lack of collaboration with stakeholders.

    According to him, the exclusion of voices from diverse political parties contributes to avoidable problems, as evident in the recent election disruptions.

    “The EC has been very headstrong…If they had internalized some of these issues, I don’t know why they would then wake up and tell us recently that in the main 2024 polls, they will close polls at 3 pm. What kind of signs went into that type of decision?

    “Well, if you are going to have an election and this District level election is an example of some of the processes that were bungled, would you think that 3 pm should applied to every polling station? Would you want to do something like that”? he added.

  • Technical challenges prompt EC to postpone district level elections in certain areas

    Technical challenges prompt EC to postpone district level elections in certain areas

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has rescheduled the district-level elections in select electoral areas in the Ashanti and Eastern Regions, citing technical challenges with the printing of ballots by the EC’s contractors.

    As reported by JoyNews in the Ashanti region, districts such as Bantama, South Sontreso, Atwima Nwabiagya, Atwima Mponua, Dadeso, and Santasi will not participate in the current exercise due to delays in the delivery of voting materials by the Electoral Commission.

    In a statement signed by the Acting Head of Public Relations for the EC, Michael Boadu, the affected areas are now scheduled to partake in the elections on Thursday, December 21, 2023.

    The overall exercise was anticipated to cover 6,215 electoral areas across 216 metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies, excluding the Nkoranza North and South in the Bono East Region.

    With over 66,000 individuals competing for District Assembly and Unit Committee positions in the District Level Elections, the EC’s data reveals 18,755 assembly member candidates and 47,502 unit committee member candidates, totaling 66,257 candidates.

    Among the assembly candidates, 17,474 are males (94%), while females are 1,106 (6%). For unit committee candidates, 40,923 are males (88%), and females are 5,413 (11.6%).

    Despite the increased number of candidates compared to previous years, voter enthusiasm remains low, consistent with the historical trend of voter apathy in the District Level Elections since its inception in 1988. Data shows varying voter turnout percentages over the years, with a notable decline in participation in some periods.

    Furthermore, the participation of women in these elections has been consistently low, presenting a challenge to achieving balanced representation.

  • Lower Manya District: Assembly and unit committee elections postponed

    Lower Manya District: Assembly and unit committee elections postponed


    The electoral process in Lower Manya, Eastern Region, has encountered a setback as reports indicate the cancellation and subsequent postponement of the assembly and unit committee elections.

    The decision to reschedule the elections was reportedly prompted by a shortage of ballot papers, a crucial component for the smooth conduct of any election.

    Sources have revealed that the information regarding the cancellation reached stakeholders an hour after the scheduled commencement of the elections, conveyed by the Municipality’s Electoral Commission Director.

    The absence of adequate ballot papers led to a swift response, resulting in the decision to defer the elections to a later date, which is yet to be communicated.

    While Lower Manya grapples with this unexpected development, other parts of the country are actively engaged in the electoral process. Across Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), citizens are participating in the crucial task of electing assembly members and unit committee representatives.

    The broader context of this local electoral undertaking involves over 66,000 individuals vying for various positions within the assembly and unit committees.

    According to statistics from the Electoral Commission, this figure encompasses 18,755 assembly member candidates and 47,502 unit committee member candidates, creating a dynamic electoral landscape across 6,215 electoral areas spread throughout 216 MMDAs.

  • Photos: District Level Elections underway

    Photos: District Level Elections underway

    The ongoing voting process is taking place nationwide to elect assembly members and unit committee members.

    A total of over 66,000 individuals are vying for positions as assembly and unit committee members in these local polls.

    As per the Electoral Commission’s recent statistics, there are 18,755 candidates contending for assembly member roles and 47,502 candidates for unit committee membership, summing up to 66,257 candidates.

    This electoral contest spans 6,215 electoral areas, covering 216 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).

  • District Level Elections: Double voting, electoral fraud will be prevented through biometric technology – EC

    District Level Elections: Double voting, electoral fraud will be prevented through biometric technology – EC

    Electoral Commission (EC) is set to introduce new technologies during today’s District Level Elections (DLEs), offering a glimpse into the strategies anticipated for the 2024 elections.

    Chairperson Jean Mensa highlighted the implementation of an advanced verification system aimed at thwarting double voting and electoral fraud.

    With a staggering 66,000 individuals vying for positions in District Assemblies nationwide, the technological upgrade is positioned as a crucial safeguard.

    Mrs. Mensa emphasized the efficacy of the biometric technology in preventing duplicate votes, urging voters to comply with electoral regulations.

    “The biometric technology makes it difficult for a person who has been verified and cast their vote to come a second time. Because once you have been verified, it goes into the system, and you cannot come back a second time.”

    “So you can try it if you wish at this election. Of course, it will be deemed an electoral offence, but because of biometric technology, your facial features are recognized, or your fingerprints are recognized, you cannot go a second time,” she said.

    As the District Level Elections unfold, the incorporation of these advanced technologies marks a significant step toward modernizing Ghana’s electoral infrastructure and fortifying the democratic process against malpractices.

  • Make sure your proposed modifications do not cause chaos in 2024 elections – Kwame Jantuah to EC

    Make sure your proposed modifications do not cause chaos in 2024 elections – Kwame Jantuah to EC

    Private legal practitioner Kwame Jantuah has issued a cautionary message to the Electoral Commission (EC), urging prudence to avoid potential chaos resulting from its proposed modifications.

    His concerns arise in response to the EC’s suggestion of reducing the close of polls from 5 pm to 3 pm and making the Ghana Card the sole proof of identification during elections.

    The EC asserts that these proposed adjustments aim to enhance transparency and orderly vote tallying by electoral officers in daylight.

    The use of the Ghana Card as the exclusive identification document is intended to address concerns related to the participation of non-citizens in elections.

    “This is not a party issue. This is a national issue we have to discuss and make sure that we do it in such a way that everybody is clear,” he added.

    In response to these proposals, Mr Jantuah criticized the EC’s previous insistence on using the Ghana Card as the sole identification for voter registration, emphasizing that it nearly deprived many individuals of their civic responsibility due to a lack of the document.

    Expressing reservations about the Ghana Card requirement, Jantuah cautioned, “How many people have a Ghana Card? She should be very careful she doesn’t cause mayhem. What is the issue? The issue is the counting at night? Make it possible for counting to happen at any given time that elections end. That is what she should be concentrating on and not trying to disenfranchise voters.”

    Jantuah further called for the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) to be empowered to conduct extensive public education instead of shortening the polling hours to 3 pm.

    “Give NCCE a lot of money to start training and educating people that ‘don’t wait until the last minute to go and vote, as much as possible, get there early,” he said.

    Kwame Jantuah also suggested to the EC to draft a Constitutional Instrument to Parliament to change the date of the general elections from December 7 to the first Saturday of December in an election year.

    “Maybe what the EC should do, should probably send a C.I. to Parliament and indicate that elections should be held first Saturday of the month of December instead of 7 because 7 can fall on a weekday but if it’s the first Saturday, at least not a lot of people work on Saturdays and employers will be prepared to give leverage for voting.

    “Maybe that is what we should be looking at instead of saying that you drastically would change from 5 pm to 3 pm. Even if we want to try it, move it an hour to say, 4 pm, to give people the time,” he added

  • NPP’s Gabriel Amoah resigns as Mfantseman 1st Vice-Chairman

    NPP’s Gabriel Amoah resigns as Mfantseman 1st Vice-Chairman

    The New Patriotic Party‘s (NPP) 1st Vice-Chairman for the Central Region’s Mfantseman Constituency, Gabriel Amoah, has stepped down.

    The 44-year-old entrepreneur told the Ghana News Agency he tendered in his resignation letter on Friday, March 31, and was received by Mr Evans Osei, the Constituency Secretary and copied to all appropriate quarters.

    Though he could not deny or confirm his widely speculated intention to contest the Parliamentary slot, he was optimistic about working hard with the constituency leadership to stretch the NPP’s political fortunes in the 2024 election.

    Having served the party with dedication and commitment across the ranks, Mr. Amoah said it behoved on him to go all out to mobilise the grassroots to make the constituency a stronghold of the NPP.

    Elated with his resignation, he said: “After a painstaking effort and a wide consultation and deliberations across the party, I have decided to resign to work assiduously to maintain the political gains of the party in the constituency.

    “I want to use this platform to remind all that energizing the base of the party is key and fundamental to the victory of the NPP in the 2024 elections.”

    To him, Mfantseman is the heartbeat of the NPP and political activism in Ghana hence, he was prepared to sacrifice his resources not only to save the party in the area but make the party more attractive.

    Considering the interesting history of parliamentary candidates of NPP in the Constituency, Mr. Amoah called on the supporters of the party to embark on a massive grassroots mobilization campaign to get more people on board.

    That, he said, was the surest way to ensure a resounding victory for the party in the 2024 elections.

    For the youth, he said: “As the youth of the NPP, we may have a tougher responsibility, but breaking the eight is a must-do for us. We must convince Ghanaians that changing a productive regime merely because it has lasted for eight years is not healthy for a country that seeks progress.

    “We must prove beyond any reasonable doubt to Ghanaians why the party must not go after its two-term regime cycle. Beyond singing the chorus of ‘Breaking the Eight’, we must critically engage our minds forthwith,” he added.

  • Parliament dismisses EC’s CI

    Parliament dismisses EC’s CI

    The new Electoral Commission‘s Constitutional Instrument (CI) which intends to make the Ghana Card the only document for continuous voter registration in the country has been rejected by Parliament.

    The House has rejected the move by the Electoral Commission (EC) to make the Ghana Card the only document for continuous voter registration in the country.

    Parliament has also maintained that the guarantor system which is a means of getting an eligible voter with the required document registered must also be maintained.

    A report of the Committee of the Whole also objected the EC’s move to limit continuous registration exercises to the regional, district capitals and offices determined by the commission.

  • Nigeria election 2023: Votes counted amid anxious wait for results

    Nigeria election 2023: Votes counted amid anxious wait for results

    The tightest presidential race in Nigeria since the end of military rule in 1999 is currently going through the counting process.

    Several youthful, first-time voters arrived early to cast their ballots, indicating that turnout was high.

    Long lines at the polls on Saturday and sporadic claims of ballot box stealing and armed man attacks hampered the voting process.

    Voting continued throughout the night in some areas, and was postponed until Sunday in parts of Bayelsa state.

    In at least five states, voting in some places did not begin until around 18:00 local time – one-and-a-half hours after polls were due to close.

    There is tension in parts of Rivers and Lagos states, where some political parties have asked their members to go to the centres where votes are being collated, over fears that they are being manipulated.

    There have also been complaints over the use of the recently introduced electronic voting system with many voters accusing electoral officials of refusing to upload the results at the polling units as they are supposed to.

    However, in those areas where voting went smoothly, results are already being posted outside individual polling stations.

    • Nigeria decides: Voting day as it happened

    The elections are the biggest democratic exercise in Africa, with 87 million people eligible to vote.

    Politics has been dominated by two parties – the ruling APC and the PDP – since the restoration of multi-party democracy 24 years ago.

    But this time, there is also a strong challenge from a third-party candidate in the race to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari – from the Labour Party’s Peter Obi, who is backed by many young people.

    The APC is represented by former Lagos state governor Bola Tinubu, while former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar is running for the PDP.

    https://emp.bbc.com/emp/SMPj/2.47.2/iframe.htmlMedia caption,

    The mood at Nigeria’s polls in 60 seconds

    The results from tens of thousands of polling stations around the country are being collated and sent to the electoral headquarters in the capital Abuja.

    The final result is not expected until at least Tuesday.

    At a press briefing on Saturday, electoral chief Mahmood Yakubu apologised for the delays in voting.

    The election day was largely peaceful, but there have been reports from Lagos of violence and ballot boxes being snatched. Some voters complained of being attacked and chased away from polling stations.

    In other places, people reported being asked to either vote for a particular candidate or leave.

    Mr Yakubu said that armed men had also attacked some polling units in the southern state of Delta and the northern state of Katsina, where voter-card verification machines were carted away.

    They were subsequently replaced and security boosted to allow voting to take place, he added.

    In the north-eastern state of Borno, Mr Yakubu said that militant Islamists had opened fire on electoral officers from a mountain top in the Gwoza area, injuring a number of officials.

    People voting at night
    Image caption,Voting carried on through the night in some areas

    The lead-up to the polls was overshadowed by a cash shortage caused by a botched attempt to redesign the currency, leading to widespread chaos at banks and cash machines as desperate people sought access to their money.

    The new notes were introduced in order to tackle inflation, and also vote-buying. On the eve of the election a member of the House of Representatives was arrested with almost $500,000 (£419,000) in cash, and a list of people he was supposed to give it to, police say.

    Whoever wins will have to deal with a crumbling economy, high youth unemployment, and widespread insecurity which saw 10,000 killed last year.

    Voters also cast their ballots for 109 federal senators and 360 members of the house of representatives, with another vote for state governors in March.

    The election has seen a huge interest from young people – a third of eligible voters are below 35.

    Mr Obi, 61, is hoping to break up Nigeria’s two-party system after joining the Labour Party last May.

    Although he was in the PDP before then, he is seen as a relatively fresh face and enjoys fervent support among some sections of Nigeria’s youth, especially in the south.

    The wealthy businessman served as governor of the south-eastern Anambra State from 2006 to 2014. His backers, known as the “OBIdients”, say he is the only candidate with integrity, but his critics argue that a vote for him is wasted as he is unlikely to win.

    • Who is Peter Obi?

    Instead, the PDP, which ruled until 2015, wants Nigerians to vote for Mr Abubakar, 76 – the only major candidate from the country’s mainly Muslim north.

    He has run for the presidency five times before – all of which he has lost. He has been dogged by accusations of corruption and cronyism, which he denies.

    Most of his career has been spent in the corridors of power, having worked as a top civil servant, vice-president and a prominent businessman.

    • Who is Atiku Abubakar?

    Most people consider the election a referendum on the APC, which has overseen a period of economic hardship and worsening insecurity.

    Its candidate, Mr Tinubu, 70, is credited with building Nigeria’s commercial hub Lagos, during his two terms as governor until 2007.

    He is known as a political godfather in the south-west region, where he wields huge influence, but like Mr Abubakar, has also been dogged by allegations of corruption over the years and poor health, both of which he denies.

    • Who is Bola Tinubu?

    A candidate needs to have the most votes and 25% of ballots cast in two-thirds of Nigeria’s 36 states to be declared the winner.

    Otherwise, there will be a run-off within 21 days – a first in Nigeria’s history.

  • Rebel-hit eastern DR Congo begins voter registration

    Rebel-hit eastern DR Congo begins voter registration

    The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s electoral board reports that voter registration has begun in seven provinces in the country’s eastern region, where violence between the army and rebels has displaced millions of residents.

    The general elections are slated for December of this year, and this is the final round of voter registration.

    Voters will be registered in the unstable provinces of Ituri and North Kivu, as well as in the US and Canada, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission.

    Voter registration across the country started in December and has so far seen at least 12 million people register as voters, according to the commission.

    The violence in the eastern part of the country is estimated to have displaced some 5.6 million people who are in dire need of food and shelter, according to the UN.

  • No Ghana card, no voting EC warns prospective voters

    The Deputy Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC) in charge of Corporate Services, has warned prospective voters to obtain a Ghana card since that will be a requirement for voting in the 2024 election.

    Speaking in an interview on The Pulse on Wednesday, Dr. Bossman Asare said without a Ghana card, one will not be registered to vote.

    This, he said is because the Ghana card has made an impact in our society with almost 17 million Ghanaians registered for it.

    “Commission in collaboration with our partners took the decision that now let us have the Ghana card as the main requirement.

    “So what this means is that as soon as you acquire your Ghana card with a continuous registration, you just go to our district office where you are located then you go and register and your name will be put on the roll of voters,” he said.

    For this reason, he used the opportunity to encourage citizens between the ages of 15 to 18 to register for their Ghana card “so that as soon as you turn 18 then you present it to the registration officer then instantly you are going to be registered.”

     

    Source: Myjoyonline

  • NDC joins EC pilot registration exercise

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is participating in the Electoral Commission (EC) pilot voter registration exercise.

    The party has therefore directed its regional executives to attend the programme, an indication that when the registration finally takes of later parts of the month the NDC party may participate against its avowed opposition.

    The exercise commenced today, June 2, 2020, and is taking place across the 16 regional capitals of Ghana.

    In a statement signed by its Director of Elections, Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, the NDC directed “five persons including two Regional Executives, two persons of the Regional directorate and an IT personnel to attend.”

    “Attendants are to observe the following: the time it takes for a voter to go through the registration process, the process of guarantorships and the time it takes,” it further directed.

    It says the EC invited one Regional party officer to observe the exercise which is expected to end on June 3.

    According to the EC, the essence of the exercise is to identify problems associated with the new biometric registration system, including its effect under various weather conditions and find ways of mitigating them.

    The EC says “all issues identified will be forwarded to the Commission at the national level for the necessary rectifications to be made before the commencement of the exercise at the end of this month.”

    “All Ghanaian citizens of 18 years and above and of sound mind are expected to register where they reside when the exercise begins; with either a Ghanaian passport or Ghana card as proof of identification or have two guarantors who have already registered as voters so they can register.”

    “Safety measures will be put in place at all registration centres throughout the country to protect applicants, who are mandated to wear nose masks to the registration centres,” it stated.

    Source: Daliy Guide Network

  • Court in Malawi orders new vote after May 2019 result annulled

    Malawi’s constitutional court has annulled last year’s controversial election, which saw President Peter Mutharika re-elected.

    The judge found there had been widespread irregularities in the May 21 vote.

    This is the first election to be legally challenged since Malawi’s independence. A new vote will take place within 151 days.

    There have been regular anti-government protests since the election.

    Source: bbc