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In a recent development at the University of Ghana, the Electoral Commission of the Students’ Representative Council was forced to indefinitely suspend the General Assembly Speaker election for the 2023/24 academic year due to a series of unfortunate incidents that unfolded during the election process.
The suspension of the election, which was set to take place on the night of Sunday, October 22, 2023, was prompted by tensions and physical altercations within the General Assembly, where members were set to vote for the next Speaker.
The controversy stemmed from the General Secretary of the UGSRC, who insisted on supervising the election and being allowed to sign and stamp ballot papers, a move fiercely opposed by the Electoral Commission. The General Secretary went as far as attempting to appoint other individuals to oversee the election and even suggested printing her own ballot papers. These actions were in direct violation of the UGSRC constitution, which clearly states that the Electoral Commission is solely responsible for conducting the election of the General Assembly Chairperson.
As the situation escalated, the Electoral Commissioner found herself under physical attack by certain individuals who prevented her from leaving the premises. The incident left a dark cloud of controversy hanging over the election process.
In response to these developments, the Electoral Commission has submitted a formal complaint to the Dean of Student Affairs and requested the initiation of an investigation into the SRC President for making false accusations of physical assault against the Electoral Commissioner. Levelling such allegations is considered an offense under university regulations and the laws of Ghana.
To ensure a smooth and transparent election process moving forward, the Electoral Commission has made several requests to the Dean of Student Affairs, including recalling the General Assembly database, clarifying the role of the Electoral Commission, providing adequate security, and overseeing the election.
In the aftermath of the election’s suspension, a follow-up communiqué was issued, naming individuals involved in acts of violence and hooliganism during the election. The university authorities have committed to holding those responsible accountable through established protocols and guidelines.
The Office of the Dean of Student Affairs has also issued a notice condemning the violence and affirming the university’s stance against any form of violence, warning that students found culpable will face severe sanctions.
As the investigations continue and actions are taken against those involved in the disturbances, the University of Ghana seeks to restore peace and order on its campus, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students and stakeholders.
