The Electoral Commission (EC) has leveled serious accusations against the National Democratic Congress (NDC)'s Greater Accra Regional Organiser, alleging their leadership in an attack on EC offices during the collation of results for the Ablekuma North Constituency parliamentary election. The incident, which unfolded on Friday, January 17, 2025, resulted in substantial property damage and caused significant distress among EC staff.
The attack comes in the context of a High Court order issued on January 4, 2025, mandating the EC to complete the collation of results and declare winners for four outstanding parliamentary elections. The Ablekuma North constituency was the only remaining constituency requiring completion. Collation, initially begun on January 8th, was temporarily halted due to incomplete results from three polling stations. The EC rescheduled the continuation for January 17th at 8:00 am.
However, based on intelligence reports, the Ghana Police Service recommended postponing the exercise. Despite this recommendation, the EC proceeded, citing a lack of adequate police security at the collation centers. The EC's statement detailed the subsequent invasion by party supporters, allegedly led by the NDC's Greater Accra Regional Organiser.
The attackers reportedly caused damage to furniture and louvre blades at the Old Head Office and issued threats to staff at the New Corporate Head Office. Adding to the gravity of the situation, two unidentified men in military uniforms were also present at the scene.
The EC has called for a swift police response, urging the identification, arrest, and prosecution of all those involved. Video footage of the incident is reportedly available to assist in the investigation. Furthermore, the EC appealed to the government to guarantee adequate security for its operations, stressing the need for a safe environment to finalize the collation process and declare the results for Ablekuma North.
Samuel Tettey, Deputy Chairman of Operations, reiterated the EC's commitment to ensuring the people of Ablekuma North have their duly elected Member of Parliament and appealed for the police's full cooperation in achieving this goal. The incident raises serious concerns about the security of electoral processes and the potential for political violence to disrupt democratic procedures. The outcome of the police investigation and subsequent actions will be closely watched.
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