The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has appealed for calm and patience from political stakeholders and the general public as they continue the meticulous process of verifying the results from the December 7 general elections. Speaking at a press briefing on Sunday, December 8, the EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa, emphasized that the polls closed only 23 hours ago and reassured Ghanaians that the results would be released within the legally mandated timeframe of 72 hours.
Jean Mensa assured citizens that the Commission is committed to delivering accurate and transparent results, stressing that the verification process involves thorough scrutiny and collaboration with political party agents and independent observers.
"We would like to ask that citizens exercise patience; it’s just been 23 hours since the close of polls. The process is elaborate and involves the participation of political parties' agents and observers at every step. We will announce the results if they are ready before the 72-hour timeline," she stated.
Calls for Patience Amid Political Pressure
The press conference came on the heels of public calls from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, urging the Commission to expedite the announcement of results. The call from the NDC was fueled by growing anxiety and impatience among their supporters, especially after the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, reportedly conceded defeat in the election.
Asiedu Nketia had argued that any further delays in announcing the results would undermine the nation's peace and stability. "The only way to calm tensions among the youth is for the Electoral Commission to expedite the declaration of results," he remarked during a press briefing at the NDC’s headquarters.
However, Jean Mensa insisted that the Commission must prioritize accuracy and due diligence over speed. She highlighted that the EC currently has certified results from only the Ahafo Region and is working diligently to process results from other regions before making an official announcement.
Ensuring Accuracy and Transparency
The EC Chairperson underscored the Commission’s commitment to constitutional requirements and transparency. “Every step of the process involves scrutiny and input from all political parties and independent observers,” Mensa said, emphasizing that the meticulous approach ensures public trust in the election results.
The Electoral Commission’s efforts are supported by a team of experts working tirelessly to verify the data from polling stations across the country. The Chairperson expressed confidence that the results would reflect the true will of the Ghanaian people once the process is complete.
Heightened Public Anticipation
Meanwhile, the delayed results have created a wave of speculation and tension among citizens eager to know the outcome of the closely contested presidential and parliamentary elections. Many Ghanaians have taken to social media platforms to express both their impatience and their trust in the EC’s ability to deliver credible results.
The EC’s assurance comes at a critical time when the stakes are high, with both the ruling NPP and opposition NDC vying for the presidency and control of parliament. With emotions running high, the Commission’s emphasis on patience and accuracy is seen as a vital step toward maintaining peace and stability in the country.
The Path Forward
As the nation waits for the official results, Jean Mensa reiterated the importance of allowing the Electoral Commission to fulfill its mandate without undue pressure. She appealed to all Ghanaians, regardless of their political affiliations, to prioritize peace and unity during this tense period.
"Our ultimate goal is to ensure that the results we announce are accurate and credible, reflecting the true voice of the electorate. We ask for your understanding and cooperation as we work diligently to conclude the process," she concluded.
While the next few hours and days will undoubtedly test the patience of citizens and political stakeholders alike, the Electoral Commission remains resolute in its mission to uphold democracy through transparency and integrity. Ghanaians are encouraged to await the official results with confidence that the EC is committed to delivering an outcome that aligns with the country’s democratic values.
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