Source: Kenneth Awotwe Darko

The Electoral Commission (EC) has suspended the printing of presidential ballot papers following the sudden death of Madam Akua Donkor, the Presidential Candidate of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP).

The GFP flagbearer’s passing was confirmed on October 29, 2024, causing significant implications for the electoral process just weeks ahead of the general election.

In an official statement, Deputy Chairman of Operations at the EC, Samuel Tettey, expressed condolences to the family of the late candidate, saying, “The Electoral Commission has today received information on the unfortunate passing of the Presidential Candidate of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), Madam Akua Donkor. May she rest in peace.”

The Commission cited Article 50(4) of the 1992 Constitution, which provides for a ten-day window to allow for the nomination of a new candidate if one of the candidates dies after the close of nominations but before the election.

However, the lack of specific guidelines under the Public Elections Regulations, 2020, C.I. 127, has added a layer of uncertainty.

Given the constitutional provision, the EC has directed the GFP to initiate the process of selecting and nominating a new presidential candidate. The party has been urged to inform the Commission as soon as a replacement is identified.

In the interim, the EC announced a suspension of the printing of presidential ballot papers, which had reportedly been near completion. This move, the Commission emphasized, is to accommodate any necessary adjustments to the ballots.

Madam Akua Donkor’s death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the political spectrum.

Madam Akua Donkor