Richard Ahiagbah, Director of Communications of NPP
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has vehemently dismissed the recent claims made by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding voter transfer in the Assin North Constituency. In a press statement signed by Richard Ahiagbah, the NPP categorically refuted the allegations, labeling them as baseless and an attempt to mislead the public ahead of the upcoming Assin North by-election.
The NDC’s press statement, signed by Sammy Gyamfi, the party’s National Communications Officer, accused the NPP of colluding with the Electoral Commission to transfer and insert the name of Charles Opoku into the Voters Register of Assin North. The NPP firmly denied any involvement in such activities and emphasized its unwavering commitment to upholding Ghana’s democratic principles.
In response, the NPP issued a series of points to clarify its position:
Firstly, the party debunked the accusation of plotting to illegally insert the name of an unqualified NPP Parliamentary Candidate into the Assin North Register. The NPP highlighted its longstanding efforts to strengthen democratic institutions in Ghana, including the Electoral Commission, and firmly stated that it would not jeopardize the country’s democratic gains.
Secondly, the NPP clarified that it has yet to select a Parliamentary Candidate for Assin North. The party reminded the public that Parliamentary Primaries in the constituency are yet to be held, making it impossible for the NDC to determine the NPP’s candidate ahead of time and suggesting collusion with the Electoral Commission.
Furthermore, the NPP provided an educational explanation of Ghana’s electoral laws, pointing out that Article 94(1)(a) of the 1992 Constitution does not require a parliamentary candidate to be registered in the constituency they wish to contest. The sole requirement is that the candidate is a registered voter. The NPP emphasized that their candidates hail from Assin North and have met the constitutional residency requirements.
To address the claim of voter transfer, the NPP highlighted that the Electoral Commission only requires a Parliamentary Candidate to make a Statutory Declaration confirming their status as a registered voter, as outlined in the Parliamentary Nominations Form – 2023. This process aligns with constitutional provisions and does not involve any illegal activities.
The NPP concluded by assuring Ghanaians, particularly the people of Assin North, of its unwavering commitment to upholding and defending the 1992 Constitution.
The upcoming Assin North by-election has garnered significant attention, with both major political parties, NPP and NDC, vying for victory. The NPP’s response to the NDC’s allegations seeks to clarify its position and dispel any doubts regarding its adherence to democratic principles and electoral laws.
As the election date draws closer, the political landscape in Assin North remains dynamic, with the NPP focused on selecting a qualified and capable candidate to represent the constituency, while the NDC continues its campaign efforts. The outcome of the by-election will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in the constituency and contribute to the larger narrative of Ghana’s democratic process.
