Electoral Commission of Ghana Steps Aside from Supervising NDC Primaries Following Interlocutory Injunction

Story by: Samuel K. Owusu

In a significant turn of events, the Electoral Commission of Ghana has announced its decision to step aside from supervising the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Presidential and Parliamentary Primaries scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 13, 2023


This decision comes in response to the interlocutory injunction served by the Accra High Court, which sought to restrain the commission from supervising the conduct of the Presidential and Parliamentary Primaries of the NDC, was as a result of a lawsuit filed by Dr Kwabena Duffuor, one of the Presidential aspirants. 


Before the Electoral Commission could take such a decision, it had to meet the Leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for stakeholder consultation. In attendance was the Chairperson of the Commission, Mrs Jean Mensa and her two Deputies, Mr Samuel Tettey, Deputy Chairman, Operations, Dr. Eric Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairman, Corporate Services, Mr. Johnson Asiedu-Nketia, representing the NDC, Dr Peter Boamah Otokunor, representing Mr John Dramani Mahama, Mr Rojo Mettle-Nunoo, representing Dr Kwabena Duffuor and Mr Mohammed Alhassan, representing Mr Kojo Bonsu


The lawsuit specifically mentioned the NDC General Secretary, the director of the elections directorate, in addition to his fellow flagbearer hopefuls, John Dramani Mahama and Kojo Bonsu. This article aims to explore the implications of the Electoral Commission's decision and provide a conclusion on the matter. Find below the writ of summons;

It is important to note that Dr Kwabena Duffuor's lawsuit may have been borne out of dissatisfaction with the conduct of the primaries or other factors, but regardless of the reasons, the commission's decision to step aside is commendable and a responsible one. This decision shows that the commission respect for the rule of law and its willingness to adhere to court orders and recognizes the importance of impartiality in the electoral process and is willing to ensure that all parties involved are given a fair chance to contest elections. 


Acknowledging the Electoral Commission's Action:

The Electoral Commission of Ghana deserves praise for their swift response to the interlocutory injunction and their commitment to upholding the rule of law. By stepping aside from supervising the NDC Presidential and Parliamentary Primaries, they have demonstrated their respect for the judicial process and their commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral environment. This decision also highlights their willingness to comply with legal directives, fostering public trust in the integrity of the electoral system.

Furthermore, it is important to note that the Electoral Commission of Ghana plays a crucial role in the democratic process of the country. Its main duty is to oversee the conduct of free and fair elections, which are critical to the stability and progress of Ghana. As such, the commission's actions must always be guided by the principles of transparency, impartiality, and fairness.


Implications of the Interlocutory Injunction:

The interlocutory injunction filed by Dr Kwabena Duffuor against the NDC primaries has raised several questions and potential implications. First and foremost, it introduces a legal hurdle that could potentially disrupt the electoral process. The Accra High Court's decision to grant the injunction suggests that there may be legitimate concerns or legal grounds presented by Dr Duffuor's legal team, which warrant further examination.

Furthermore, this development brings attention to the internal dynamics within the NDC party. The fact that the lawsuit specifically named the NDC General Secretary, the elections directorate, and fellow flagbearer aspirants, John Dramani Mahama and Kojo Bonsu, implies a degree of internal strife or disagreement within the party's ranks. Such internal disputes can have broader consequences for the party's unity and public perception, potentially impacting their chances in the upcoming general elections.


Evaluating the Electoral Commission's Decision:

While the Electoral Commission's decision to step aside is commendable in terms of respecting the judicial process, it also raises concerns regarding the potential logistical challenges that may arise from their absence in case the NDC goes ahead to do their primaries. The Commission plays a crucial role in overseeing the organization, coordination, and supervision of electoral processes, including voter registration, candidate nominations, and election-day operations. Without their involvement, ensuring a smooth and fair electoral process becomes more challenging.

Moreover, the absence of the Electoral Commission may lead to perceptions of a compromised election, particularly among supporters of candidates who were in favour of the primaries proceeding as planned. Transparency and impartiality are paramount in any electoral process, and the Commission's absence could potentially undermine public confidence in the outcome.


Conclusion:

The Electoral Commission of Ghana's decision to step aside from supervising the NDC Presidential and Parliamentary Primaries following an interlocutory injunction from the Accra High Court shows the commission's respect for the rule of law and its willingness to adhere to court orders. It also signifies their commitment to upholding the rule of law and respecting the judicial process. 

While commendable, this development also raises concerns regarding the potential logistical challenges and the impact on public perception. It is essential that the commission remains impartial in its duties and ensures that all parties involved in the electoral process are given a fair chance to contest elections. This is crucial to the stability and progress of Ghana's democracy. It is imperative that all parties involved work towards a swift resolution of the legal issues at hand to ensure a fair, transparent, and credible electoral process. The NDC must seize this opportunity to address internal disputes and promote unity within the party


Published by: SAMUEL KWAME OWUSU (SKO)

TEL: 0265253230 / 0249331990

IG: @ sko_aduomi

Twitter: @ AduomiSko

EMAIL: soaduomi844@gmail.com

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