The People’s National Convention (PNC) has thrown its support behind the opposition parties that have dragged the Electoral Commission, Ghana (EC) to court.
The political parties namely the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Convention People’s Party (CPP), All People’s Congress (APC), Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) and the Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP) filed for an injunction at the Supreme Court to stop the Commission from going ahead with the limited voter registration at its district offices.
Filed last Thursday, September 7, the application articulated the parties’ demand for the exercise to be extended to electoral areas.
The parties are of the opinion that if the EC is allowed to go ahead with the exercise, it “will result in voter suppression particularly in rural constituencies of the country, and is thus unconstitutional as it violates the rights of first-time voters to register and vote”.
In a statement issued on Monday, September 11, the PNC expressed concern about the decision of the EC to maintain its stance.
“The stiff position exhibited by the Commission raises questions about its commitment to ensuring fair and transparent elections,” the statement jointly issued by the 1st National Vice Chair, Hajia Hajara Ali Musah, and 3rd National Vice Chair, Alhaji Omar Bekure, said.
“As an electoral body, the Commission plays a crucial role in upholding the democratic process and maintaining the trust of the electorate.
“However, the decision to maintain its stand without addressing the concerns of various stakeholders especially opposition political parties sends a troubling message to the citizens and affects the credibility of the electoral process.”
The party, therefore, called on the Commission to reconsider its position and engage all stakeholders.
“This will not only help to restore trust in the electoral process but also demonstrate their commitment to democratic principles.”
The PNC, therefore, backed the suit against the EC.
“We of the PNC hope that the Electoral Commission recognizes the importance of maintaining public trust, and takes the necessary steps to address the growing voter apathy surrounding their current stance.
“The People’s National Convention wish to state that we support the sister parties in court to put the EC chair to order.”