A civil society group called the Election Watch Ghana, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to postpone the Akwatia by-election, currently set for September 2. The group cites the recent death of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the reason for their call.
In a statement signed by conveners Mark Ewusi Arkoh and Jude Balma, the group said the EC should exercise its discretionary powers under Article 296 of the 1992 Constitution to ensure fairness.
“Given the circumstances, a postponement would be in line with this constitutional provision, ensuring that the electoral process is conducted without undue prejudice to any party,” the statement said.
They also referenced Section 13 of the Elections Act, 2002 (Act 651), which allows the EC to adjust timelines when necessary.
“The demise of Dr. Omane Boamah, a key member of the NDC’s electoral team and an active contributor to IPAC, constitutes such a circumstance” the group argued.
Election Watch Ghana urged the EC to convene an emergency Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting to discuss the matter.
“By granting this request, the EC would uphold the principles of fairness and impartiality that are essential to the growth and development of our democracy” the statement contained.
