Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, leader of the minority group, has firmly opposed the Electoral Commission’s suggestion to alter the timing of elections from December to November. Expressing staunch disapproval, Dr. Forson emphasized that the minority faction in Parliament would not endorse such a change at present.
As the forthcoming general elections loom, concerns have been raised regarding the Electoral Commission’s purported plan to reschedule this year’s elections to November. Dr. Forson reiterated the minority’s stance, stating unequivocally, “The NDC Minority Caucus in Parliament will not support any such alteration at this juncture.”
Highlighting the need for the Electoral Commission to prioritize critical issues over date modifications, Dr. Forson stressed, “There are more urgent matters demanding the Commission’s immediate attention than altering the election date. As of now, the Electoral Commission has yet to unveil the 2024 election calendar.”
During the welcome address for Parliament’s Fourth Session of the Eighth Parliament of the Fourth Republic on February 6th, 2024, Minority Leader Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson criticized the Commission for its perceived lack of substantial reforms post the 2024 elections. He urged comprehensive and inclusive reforms, involving political parties and various interest groups, including faith-based organizations.
Addressing concerns over the use of indelible ink in the electoral process, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson adamantly declared opposition to its elimination, asserting, “We categorically oppose the removal of indelible ink from our electoral procedures. We stand firm on this stance.”
Despite the Electoral Commission’s assertion that omitting indelible ink aims to enhance the electoral process and establish a robust identification system, Dr. Forson contended, “The use of indelible ink contributes to the integrity of our elections by ensuring visible, transparent, and physical verification in addition to biometric verification.”
He further emphasized the significance of indelible ink in deterring multiple voting and ensuring the credibility of Ghana’s electoral system, stating, “Indelible ink is not only a fixture in our Fourth Republic elections but also a proven method to prevent electoral malpractices.”