Oliver Barker-Vormawor, the Convenor of the Fix the Country Movement, has criticized the Electoral Commission’s (EC) decision to retain the image of the late Akua Donkor, founder of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), on the ballot paper for Ghana's upcoming elections. He described this decision as unconstitutional and a potential threat to the integrity of the democratic process.
Barker-Vormawor argued that the EC's actions contradict its earlier stance, where it expressed readiness to allow the GFP to nominate a replacement candidate and reprint the ballot papers. He questioned why financial constraints were now being prioritized over the fundamental right to a fair and transparent electoral process.
In a social media post on November 16, he raised concerns about the impracticality of expecting all voters to be aware of Akua Donkor's passing, warning that such assumptions could mislead voters and compromise the credibility of the election. Furthermore, he suggested that the EC's move could disproportionately disadvantage opposition parties, indirectly benefiting the ruling government.
The activist also pointed to the disqualification of another candidate, Roman Fada, questioning whether financial considerations were a factor in that decision as well. He called on stakeholders, including political parties and civil society organizations, to scrutinize the EC’s decisions, emphasizing the broader implications for democratic governance.
Barker-Vormawor's comments have reignited debates over the EC’s role in ensuring impartiality and maintaining public trust in the electoral process. Critics argue that decisions perceived as politically motivated or constitutionally questionable could erode confidence in the institution and undermine democratic principles.
This controversy highlights the tension between practical constraints, such as budgetary limitations, and the need to uphold constitutional values and fairness in Ghana’s electoral system. As the country prepares for its elections, stakeholders are being urged to remain vigilant and advocate for processes that prioritize the rights of voters and candidates alike.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of transparent and accountable governance in fostering trust in democratic institutions. The EC, as the custodian of electoral integrity, faces mounting pressure to address these concerns and ensure that its actions align with both constitutional principles and public expectations.
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