The Electoral Commission of Ghana has strongly denied claims made by Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), that it is engaged in illicit activities in collaboration with the New Patriotic Party (NPP). In a statement released by the EC, it categorically dismissed the allegations as baseless and unfounded.
Sammy Gyamfi, a prominent member of the NDC, had accused the Electoral Commission of conspiring with the NPP to manipulate the electoral process by attempting to transfer the vote of Charles Opoku to the Assin North Constituency. However, the EC clarified that these claims are entirely false and purely a product of imagination on the part of the NDC executive.
The Electoral Commission emphasized that it has no records of any request for vote transfer as alleged by Sammy Gyamfi. The EC stated that such claims are intended to tarnish its reputation and cast doubt on its credibility. The Commission further stated that it has not received any requests from the NPP or any other party to transfer the votes of individuals. The allegations made by Sammy Gyamfi were deemed baseless and without any factual basis.
The EC reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in its operations. It pointed out that, according to Article 94 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, an individual does not need to be a registered voter in a specific constituency to contest elections there. The Commission emphasized that it adheres to the constitutional requirements for eligible voters and conducts its operations with the utmost integrity.
The Electoral Commission’s statement serves as a clear refutation of the claims made by Sammy Gyamfi and the NDC. It highlights the Commission’s commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and impartiality in the electoral process. The EC’s assertion that it has not received any requests for vote transfer from the NPP reaffirms its position as an independent body, dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the electoral system in Ghana.
In a country where political tensions can run high during election periods, it is crucial for institutions like the Electoral Commission to operate transparently and with utmost integrity. Allegations of collaboration between political parties and electoral bodies can undermine public trust in the democratic process. The EC’s swift response to these allegations demonstrates its dedication to maintaining its reputation as a credible and impartial institution.
It is essential for political parties to engage in responsible and evidence-based criticism of electoral processes to ensure a healthy democracy. Unfounded claims can lead to unnecessary conflicts and damage the trust that citizens place in their democratic institutions. It is important for all parties to respect the independence of the Electoral Commission and work together to strengthen the electoral system for the benefit of the Ghanaian people.
In conclusion, the Electoral Commission of Ghana has firmly refuted the allegations made by Sammy Gyamfi of the NDC regarding collaboration with the NPP. The EC’s statement clarifies that these allegations are baseless and aimed at undermining the Commission’s integrity. The EC reiterates its commitment to transparency, accountability, and upholding the constitutional requirements for eligible voters. It is crucial for all parties involved in the electoral process to foster a spirit of cooperation and trust to ensure the smooth functioning of Ghana’s democracy.