The Electoral Commission (EC) has halted the printing of presidential ballot papers in the wake of the unexpected death of Madam Akua Donkor, the Ghana Freedom Party’s (GFP) Presidential candidate.
The GFP flagbearer’s death was verified on October 29, 2024, with major ramifications for the electoral process just weeks before the general election.
In an official statement, the EC’s Deputy Chairman of Operations, Samuel Tettey, expressed condolences to the late candidate’s family, saying, “The Electoral Commission has today received information on the unfortunate passing of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) Presidential Candidate, Madam Akua Donkor. May she rest peacefully.”
The Commission cited Article 50(4) of the 1992 Constitution, which allows for a ten-day opportunity to nominate a new candidate if one of the candidates dies after the nomination period but before the election.
However, the absence of precise standards under the Public Elections Regulations, 2020, C.I. 127, has introduced an element of uncertainty.
Based on the constitutional clause, the EC has directed the GFP to begin the process of selecting and nominating a new presidential candidate. The party has been asked to notify the Commission as soon as a successor is identified.
EC halts printing of presidential ballot papers
In the meantime, the EC suspended the printing of presidential ballot sheets, which had apparently been nearing completion. The Commission noted that this action is intended to facilitate any necessary ballot modifications.
Madam Akua Donkor’s death has triggered an outpouring of condolences from across the political spectrum.