In a significant move towards bolstering electoral transparency and accountability, the Ghanaian Parliament has announced its intention to summon the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa. This summoning comes as a direct response to pressing questions raised by Members of Parliament regarding crucial aspects of the upcoming 2024 General Elections and outstanding issues from the past polls.
The announcement was made by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga during the presentation of the business statement for the coming parliamentary week. The anticipated appearance of the EC Chairperson before the legislative body is set to address two primary concerns formally submitted by Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor, the Member of Parliament for South Dayi.
The first critical inquiry seeks to ascertain whether the EC has, in fact, awarded any contracts for the printing and supply of ballot papers for the highly anticipated 2024 General Elections. This question is paramount to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process and shedding light on the transparency of the procurement procedures involved in such a vital aspect of national elections. Lawmakers and the public alike are keen to understand the details surrounding these contracts to prevent any potential irregularities or doubts about the fairness of the ballot.
The second, equally pressing concern relates to the inexplicably delayed declaration of the Ablekuma North parliamentary results. These results have remained officially unannounced since the December 7 polls, creating an unusual and concerning vacuum in the electoral record. MP Dafeamekpor is demanding comprehensive answers from the EC Chairperson regarding the prolonged delay and a clear explanation as to why these crucial results have not yet been made public, nearly six months after the election.
The parliamentary summons underscores the legislature’s commitment to holding independent bodies like the EC accountable. The impending session with Jean Mensa is expected to provide much-needed clarity on these critical electoral matters, aiming to reinforce public trust in Ghana’s democratic institutions as the nation gears up for another pivotal election cycle. The outcomes of this parliamentary grilling will be closely watched by political stakeholders, civil society organizations, and the general public, all eager for transparency and definitive answers.
Source: http://thepressradio.com
