The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has announced the suspension of collation processes for nine unresolved parliamentary constituencies, citing the need to address disputes before proceeding.
The directive, issued on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, has drawn criticism, particularly from representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ablekuma North Constituency, one of the areas affected. Both parties expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, raising concerns over its impact on transparency and fairness.
In Ablekuma North, where results from approximately 219 polling stations have already been collated, 61 polling stations remain unresolved. The EC’s directive has halted further progress, intensifying tensions.
Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, a former Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, condemned the suspension, arguing it undermines the credibility of the electoral process. “Bringing such a directive at this point is unacceptable,” he stated.
The announcement has also sparked protests from NDC supporters, who gathered outside the Accra Regional Office of the EC. Demonstrators blocked roads with an electricity pole and demanded access to the premises, insisting on the declaration of results for the closely contested Ablekuma North Constituency.
The EC’s decision to suspend collation for the nine constituencies underscores the challenges of resolving electoral disputes in highly contested areas. Further updates on the resolution process are expected in the coming days.