Coalition of Csos for Transparent Elections- COCTE

**COCTE IPVT FINAL REPORT 2024 ELECTIONS**

L O A D I N G. . . . .

*PRESS STATEMENT*
For Immediate Release

Date: 19th December, 2024

*CARE GHANA CALLS FOR SUMMARY REJECTION OF THE ELECTORAL COMMISSION CHAIRPERSON’S ATTEMPT TO RE-COLLATE ALREADY COLLATED RESULTS IN NINE CONSTITUENCIES*

Care for Free and Fair Election Ghana (“CARE” GHANA) wishes to express its deep concern over recent reports suggesting an attempt by the Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, Jean Mensa, to annul the election results of nine constituencies.

We categorically state that such a move is illegal, unconstitutional, and undermines the principles of democratic governance in Ghana. Ghana has built its democracy on the foundation of transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law.

Any attempt to annul legitimate election results must follow due process as enshrined in the laws governing elections in this country.

It is imperative that all stakeholders, especially those entrusted with safeguarding our democracy, act within the confines of the law.

The EC Chairperson’s alleged attempt to unilaterally annul these results violates Section 44 of the Representation of the People Act, 1992 (PNDCL 284), which mandates that all decisions affecting elections must be transparent and made in consultation with all relevant stakeholders.

Additionally, the Constitution guarantees every Ghanaian citizen the right to vote and to have their vote counted. Any act that seeks to nullify this right without due process is not only illegal but a gross affront to the sovereignty of the people.

In the aftermath of the 2020 general elections, the Chairperson of the EC and Returning Officer for the Presidential Election, Jean Mensa, categorically declined Hon. Haruna Iddrisu’s call for a recount and recollation in constituencies where disputes arose.

She cited legal limitations, stating her inability to direct presiding officers to undertake such an exercise. Instead, she advised the then-Minority Leader to seek redress through the courts.

Today, however, the EC has deemed it expedient to annul nine declared elections and unilaterally call for re-collation. This contradictory stance reflects a dangerous trend of reprobating and approbating, condemning a course of action in one instance while endorsing it in another.

Such inconsistencies erode public trust in the electoral process and expose the EC to allegations of bias, partisanship, and selective application of the law.

“CARE” GHANA wishes to remind the EC of its constitutional mandate to act as an impartial arbiter in electoral matters. Its actions must adhere strictly to the principles of fairness, transparency, and consistency.

Double standards, whether perceived or actual, have dire implications for the peace and stability of Ghana’s democracy.

“CARE” GHANA further emphasizes that the proper forum for contesting election results is the judiciary. Parties dissatisfied with any aspect of the electoral process must present their grievances before a court of competent jurisdiction.

Attempts to sidestep this legal pathway create unnecessary tension and erode public confidence in our democratic institutions. We call on the government, other civil society organizations, and the international community to monitor this situation closely and to stand firmly in defense of the rule of law.

Ghana cannot afford to compromise its hard-earned reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa.

We advises the EC Chairperson to rescind any plans to annul the election results of the nine constituencies and to uphold the principles of fairness and justice. Ghana deserves nothing less.

Signed
David Kumi Addo
Executive Director (“CARE” GHANA)
Tel. 0559026124/0273009907

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Fellow citizens,

The power to shape our future is in our hands! As we go to the polls today, we urge you to exercise your fundamental right to vote.

Your vote is not just a choice, but a voice that demands to be heard. It's a declaration of your values, aspirations, and vision for our country.

By casting your ballot, you're not only electing leaders but also:

Holding them accountable for their actions
Shaping policies that impact your life and community
Influencing the direction of our nation

Don't let others decide for you! Every vote matters, and every voice counts.

So, let's make a pact to:

Show up at the polling stations and cast your precious votes.

Together, we can create a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and our community.

out and VOTE

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