EC justifies re-collation of parliamentary results in disputed constituencies

The Electoral Commission (EC) has defended its decision to re-collate results in nine parliamentary constituencies following the December 2024 elections, describing the move as a standard electoral practice aimed at ensuring transparency and integrity.

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), which alleges irregularities in the process.

On Saturday, December 21, the EC completed the re-collation exercise in seven out of the nine disputed constituencies, with all the outcomes favouring New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidates. The affected constituencies include:

Ahafo Ano North

Techiman South

Ahafo Ano South West

Nsawam-Adoagyiri

Obuasi East

Okaikwei Central

Tema Central

The re-collation exercise was prompted by disputes and alleged irregularities in the initial tabulation of results. Legal challenges from stakeholders compelled the Commission to revisit the results in these constituencies.

In a public statement, the EC emphasized that re-collation is not unprecedented in Ghana’s electoral history, citing past instances under Dr. Afari Gyan’s tenure:

In the 2004 parliamentary elections, re-collation was conducted in the Pru, Tolon, Yapei-Kusawgu, and Zabzugu constituencies to resolve disputes and declare rightful winners.

During the 1998 district-level elections in the KEEA District, re-collation addressed errors and ensured accurate results.

The Commission reiterated that such measures are necessary to rectify procedural errors or disruptions, maintaining the credibility of the electoral process.

“This practice is a recognized mechanism to uphold the integrity of elections in the face of irregularities or violence,” the statement read.

The NDC, however, remains skeptical, questioning the impartiality of the EC and the timing of the re-collation. The opposition party has vowed to pursue legal redress and continue its advocacy for electoral reforms.

With the remaining two constituencies yet to be re-collated, the spotlight remains on the EC to ensure fairness and transparency as Ghana’s electoral system faces another test of credibility.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith