The Supreme Court of Ghana has invalidated election results in four key constituencies Tema Central, Ablekuma North, Techiman South, and Okaikwei Central following allegations of procedural errors and violations of the right to a fair hearing. This ruling directly challenges the Electoral Commission’s (EC) controversial re-collation of results and subsequent declarations in these areas.
Notably, the apex court clarified that its decision does not impact the results of Ahafo Ano North and Nsawam Adoagyiri constituencies.
The court determined that the High Court trial judge had violated the rights of National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidates when they sought redress regarding alleged irregularities. According to the judgment, the candidates were denied the opportunity to fully present their cases, undermining the principles of natural justice.
The now-overturned December 20 High Court ruling had directed the EC to re-collate results in nine constituencies based on a mandamus application filed by New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidates. The NPP argued that discrepancies in the election results required verification to ensure transparency and fairness.
The EC, acting on the earlier ruling, re-collated results in seven constituencies but left Dome-Kwabenya and Ablekuma North unresolved due to procedural delays.
NDC’s Allegations of Bias
The NDC strongly criticized the High Court trial judge, accusing them of bias and procedural errors in handling the case. According to the party, the re-collation directive unfairly disregarded their concerns and compromised the integrity of the electoral process.
Mandamus Application Still Pending
Despite the Supreme Court’s decision to quash the results, the application for a writ of mandamus remains unresolved. The High Court is set to hear and decide on the matter on Tuesday, December 31, a move that could further shape the disputed constituencies’ electoral outcomes.
This ruling underscores the need for greater scrutiny of the EC’s processes. The commission has faced criticism for its handling of the re-collation in these constituencies, with accusations of inefficiency and lack of transparency. As Ghana prepares for future elections, the legal tussles highlight the necessity of robust, impartial, and error-free electoral management systems.
Note:
The Supreme Court annulled results in four constituencies due to procedural violations.
Ahafo Ano North and Nsawam Adoagyiri results remain unaffected.
The High Court’s mandamus application will proceed on December 31.
The EC’s role in re-collation continues to face legal and public scrutiny.
This decision is expected to have significant implications for electoral transparency and political accountability in Ghana, setting a precedent for addressing disputes in future elections.
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