The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ashanti Region has expressed deep concern and dissatisfaction with the gross incompetence displayed by Electoral Commissioner Jean Mensah and her commission during today’s district level elections.
According to the party, the district level elections, as the core of Ghana’s democracy, has suffered severe setbacks under her leadership.
In the Ashanti Region, the NDC observed the challenges faced were particularly egregious, with over 4,310 polling centers experiencing significant delays and others unable to conduct voting due to the lack of essential election materials, including no/insufficient ballot papers.
“This raises serious questions about the competence and preparedness of the Electoral Commission (EC) under Jean Mensah’s leadership especially ahead of the 2024 general elections. Furthermore, the absence of ink to mark voters raises concerns about preventing fraud and multiple voting.
“The EC must urgently review and address these lapses to ensure the credibility of future elections. Also of great concern is the revelation that certain materials including hand sanitizers used by the EC in the Ashanti Region were branded with the colors, logos, and even the picture of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), creating an alarming perception of bias. The EC is expected to be impartial and maintain the integrity of the electoral process. The NDC emphasizes the importance of the Electoral Commission being independent, free, and fair. However, the branding of materials with partisan symbols challenges this principle and compromises public trust in the electoral process,” a statement signed by the Regional Secretary, Dr. Frank Amoakohene said.
The NDC maintains that Madam Jean Mensah does not inspire confidence of an impartial electoral commission under her leadership and must resign as the Electoral Commissioner.
“We believe that her continued leadership threatens the sanctity of our democratic process. We also demand call on the National Peace Council to intervene, urging Commissioner Jean Mensah to rectify these issues promptly. The 2024 elections are on the horizon, and it is crucial to address these concerns to avoid greater challenges for Ghana’s democracy,” the statement concluded.
Source: Kasapafmonline.com
