By Lord Fiifi Quayle

At this critical crossroads, the actions of the Electoral Commission (EC), led by Jean Mensa, have sparked intense debate and concern among the populace. Their recent decision to re-collate results from nine constituencies, previously declared final, raises serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the motives behind this sudden shift.

In 2020, (on SALL)the EC firmly stated that once results had been declared, they were final. This position was lauded by the NPP as a necessary step to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process and to ensure that the will of the people was respected. However, in the wake of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) significant losses in the recent elections, the EC’s current push to revisit these results appears to many as a troubling attempt to manipulate the political landscape.

The timing of this re-collation is particularly suspicious. As the National Democratic Congress (NDC) gains ground and threatens to secure a two-thirds majority in Parliament, the EC’s actions are seen by critics as a desperate bid to stave off a political shift that could reshape Ghana’s governance. The notion that the EC would seek to alter the outcomes of already declared results raises alarm bells about its commitment to neutrality and fairness.

During President Mahama’s campaign, he stressed to supporters the importance of transparency in the electoral process, urging them to pull out their phones and record proceedings after the elections—especially during the counting and collation of results, as well as the declaration of those results. This grassroots initiative has yielded a wealth of videos that showcase the electoral process in real-time, capturing the actions of returning officers and the atmosphere in polling stations across the country. Importantly, these recordings reveal no signs of intimidation or duress, directly contradicting the claims made by the EC and the NPP.

President-elect John Dramani Mahama has voiced his apprehension regarding the EC’s decision, emphasizing the need for transparency and adherence to established electoral protocols. In a statement today, Mahama called on the EC to uphold its previous stance and respect the democratic process, warning that any attempt to manipulate the outcomes could lead to widespread disillusionment and unrest among the citizenry. His call to action resonates with many Ghanaians who are wary of any efforts to undermine the democratic principles that have been hard-won over the years.

The implications of the EC’s decision are profound. If the re-collation of these results is perceived as an attempt to alter the balance of power in favor of the NPP, it could ignite tensions and erode public trust in the electoral system. Ghanaians have demonstrated a commitment to democracy, and any perceived infringement upon their right to vote and have their voices heard could lead to significant backlash.

As we reflect on these developments, it is crucial for the Electoral Commission to act with integrity and transparency. The credibility of Ghana’s democratic processes hinges on the ability of its institutions to operate independently and fairly. The EC must remember that it is the guardian of the electoral process, not a player in the political game.

The call for the re-collation of results from nine constituencies should be approached with caution and skepticism. The good people of Ghana deserve a transparent electoral process that respects their choices and upholds the principles of democracy. As this situation unfolds, it is imperative for all stakeholders to remain vigilant, ensuring that the voices of the citizens are heard and respected. Ghana’s future depends on it. The evidence captured by citizens during the election serves as a powerful reminder that the will of the people must prevail, and that democracy is best served when transparency and accountability are prioritized.