Mercy360 Blog of Friday, 20 December 2024
Source: Mercy Mensah
The High Court in Accra has delivered a significant verdict, dismissing the National Democratic Congress' (NDC) request to stop the Electoral Commission (EC) from re-collating and re-declaring the results of the disputed parliamentary constituencies. This decision has far-reaching implications for the outcome of the elections in these constituencies.
The NDC had filed a lawsuit seeking to halt the re-collation process, which they described as an "illegality." They claimed that they were unaware of the process and that the EC had failed to follow the proper procedures. However, the court's decision has rejected these claims and paved the way for the EC to continue with the re-collation and re-declaration of results.
The disputed constituencies include Dome Kwabenya, Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North, Tema Central, and Obuasi East. The NDC had initially been declared winners in these constituencies, but the EC later announced that there would be a re-collation of results due to discrepancies and irregularities.
The NDC's lawsuit had sought several reliefs, including a declaration that the EC cannot re-collate, recount, and re-declare the results. They also sought an order prohibiting the EC from doing so. However, the court's decision has rejected these requests and upheld the EC's authority to conduct the re-collation and re-declaration of results.
The court's verdict is a significant blow to the NDC's hopes of retaining control of these constituencies. The party had been confident of winning these seats, but the EC's decision to re-collate the results has thrown the outcome into doubt.
The EC has welcomed the court's decision, stating that it will continue with the re-collation and re-declaration of results in accordance with the law. The commission has assured the public that it will ensure the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.
The outcome of the re-collation and re-declaration of results will have significant implications for the composition of the next parliament. The NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are locked in a fierce battle for control of the legislature, and the outcome of these disputed constituencies will play a crucial role in determining the balance of power.
In conclusion, the High Court's decision to dismiss the NDC's request to stop the EC from re-collating and re-declaring the results of the disputed parliamentary constituencies is a significant development in the ongoing electoral dispute. The EC will now proceed with the re-collation and re-declaration of results, and the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the composition of the next parliament.