The escalating controversy over the Electoral Commission’s (EC) directive to rerun parliamentary elections in 19 polling stations in Ablekuma North has spilled into Ghana’s legislature, prompting a firm call for composure and legal clarity from Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga.
In a statement delivered on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, July 3, Mr. Ayariga urged lawmakers—particularly those on the Minority side—not to inflame tensions by politicising the EC’s decision, which has already triggered sharp divisions within the chamber and beyond.
Caution Over Political Rhetoric
Responding to Minority MPs who accused the EC of bias and demanded a parliamentary summons for the Commission’s leadership, Mr. Ayariga said the focus should be on protecting the credibility of democratic institutions—not undermining them for partisan gain.
“I don’t know why you’re afraid,” he said pointedly. “Why are you afraid? Let’s not drag institutions into politics simply because a political party chairperson [Asiedu Nketia] has spoken. The EC must not become collateral damage in political power struggles.”
Rerun Sparks Legal and Political Storm
The EC’s July 2 announcement that it would conduct a rerun in select polling stations in Ablekuma North has deepened political tensions, with both the opposition and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) questioning the Commission’s justification.
While the EC cited irregularities with verification records from the December 2024 polls, the NPP insists only three polling stations remain uncollated and has accused the EC of backtracking on earlier confirmations made in Parliament.
The party has vowed to seek a court injunction to halt the planned rerun, arguing that the EC’s unilateral decision defies a January 2025 High Court order instructing completion—not repetition—of collation.
Maintaining Legislative Neutrality
Mr. Ayariga’s remarks appeared aimed at steering Parliament away from the legal fray and toward a more stabilising role amid rising political rhetoric.
“Parliament’s job is not to preempt the judiciary or act on unfounded assumptions,” he said. “If there are legitimate grievances, the courts are the proper venue—not this chamber.”
Next Steps
As legal teams prepare for what could become a constitutional battle over the EC’s powers, the Majority Leader’s appeal for moderation could serve as a litmus test for how Parliament navigates contentious election disputes ahead of the 2028 cycle.
The EC has yet to issue a formal response to the NPP’s legal threat or parliamentary backlash. Civil society groups are also watching closely, with some urging the Commission to provide a comprehensive breakdown of its decision to maintain transparency.
