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Some civil society organizations have expressed concern about the decision of the president of the Electoral Commission (EC) and her deputies to proceed with leave in what they describe as a critical moment.
The group is made up of organizations including the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), the Center for Democratic Development (CDD), the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), the Initiative of the Civic Forum (CFI), Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) and NORSAAC.
CSOs find it inconceivable that the Commission has not provided alternatives to address any problems that may arise in its absence, as the political atmosphere surrounding the recently concluded general elections continues to boil.
“Given the current post-election context and the issues that arise, some of which may require your attention, we find it unacceptable that the EC should close at this critical time at this critical time, and without any clarification to the public about the alternative arrangements to be made. have established.
A memorandum signed by the vice president of the EC had declared that the Management Commission will be interrupted from December 23, 2020 until January 19, 2021 “after the peaceful and successful conduct of the 2020 presidential and parliamentary elections.”
Prior to this decision, opposition NDC supporters have been on the streets for days protesting to back their candidate, John Mahama’s rejection of Nana Akufo-Addo’s EC declaration as president-elect.
The minority has also demanded a new compilation of the Techiman South parliamentary elections or risk boycotting the inauguration on December 2 next year.
Based on these developments, CSOs believe it will be prudent for the “EC to review its decision on its planned one-month leave and assure Ghanaians that until these matters are resolved, the Commission’s leadership will be on duty to comply. fully with its responsibilities. “
Earlier today, the Minority marched to the EC headquarters to present a petition demanding that the EC rectify what it believes to be anomalies that led NPP to secure the Techiman Sur headquarters.
There were no high-ranking officials to receive the petition after NDC MPs clashed with security agencies in a heated confrontation.
CSOs said: “In light of the EC’s response that it received the notification late and that it holds the institution of Parliament in high regard, we kindly urge the Minority to resubmit its petition and the results it has obtained. to the EC, as soon as possible, for quick action. “
