The Ghana Freedom Party is dismayed by the Electoral Commission’s disqualification of their candidates despite correcting all indicated errors prior to resubmission. Following alarming reports of threats from EC officials, the party engaged with the commission, but their candidates were still disqualified. As a response, the GFP is deliberating whether to take legal action against the EC’s decision.
The Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) has expressed their shock and disappointment following the Electoral Commission’s (EC) decision to disqualify their candidates from the upcoming elections. Despite diligently addressing all errors identified by the EC and resubmitting their nomination forms, the party’s candidates were unexpectedly disqualified. Nana Poku, an aide to the GFP’s flagbearer, Roman Fada, recounted that the party had received alarming reports while in Kumasi, indicating threats directed at their candidates from alleged EC officials. In response, the GFP leadership contacted an EC officer to address these issues and subsequently formalized their concerns through a letter. Following this engagement, the party was advised to correct specific errors in their candidacy documents. Upon returning to Kumasi, they received additional notification from the EC to rectify supposed mistakes—erroneous misrepresentations originating from the commission’s end. Having complied, the GFP was taken aback when their candidate was disqualified despite these corrections. Consequently, the party is presently holding deliberations to decide on potential legal recourse against the EC’s decision or to monitor the situation for any forthcoming developments. This disqualification aligns with the recent announcement concerning the disqualification of Philip Appiah Kubi, GFP’s alternate flagbearer, due to certain discrepancies in his nomination form. EC Chair Jean Mensa addressed this issue at a media briefing held on November 12.
The Electoral Commission of Ghana holds a vital role in overseeing fair and transparent elections in the country. However, there can be instances where parties feel aggrieved by decisions made regarding candidate eligibility. The Ghana Freedom Party’s recent experience underscores the challenges faced by political entities in navigating the electoral landscape, particularly when discrepancies and communication issues arise. Disqualifications can provoke significant disputes and raise questions about the integrity of the electoral processes, making it imperative for parties to seek redress.
In summary, the Ghana Freedom Party’s discontent with the Electoral Commission’s disqualification of their candidates highlights significant concerns regarding electoral fairness and procedural transparency. The party’s commitment to rectifying errors, coupled with the unexpected rejection, has left them contemplating their next steps, including potential legal action. This unfolding situation reflects broader implications for political engagement and integrity within the electoral framework.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
