The Electoral Commission (EC) has asked the leadership of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), to nominate a new presidential candidate to contest this year’s General Election, following the demise of its presidential candidate, Madam Akua Donkor.
A press statement signed by its Deputy Chairman, Operations, Mr Samuel Tettey, copied The Ghanaian Times on Tuesday, stated that the directive was in accordance with Article 50 (4) of the 1992 constitution.
It indicated that per the Article, where at close of nominations, but before the election, one of the candidates dies, a further period of 10 days should be allowed for nomination.
As a result, the statement explained that the EC had, for the meantime, suspended the printing of presidential ballot papers, which were near completion.
The EC on Tuesday issued an earlier press release that it has received information on the unfortunate passing of the presidential candidate of the GFP, Madam Akua Donkor.
It indicated that “While the 1992 Constitution and the Public Elections Regulations, 2020, C.I. 127, are not clear on processes to follow in the event of the death of a Presidential Candidate, Article 50 (4) of the 1992 Constitution provides that where at a close of nominations, but before the election, one candidate dies, a further period of ten days shall be allowed for nomination”.
“The Commission has since informed the GFP to make arrangements to nominate a new candidate and inform the Commission accordingly,” the statement added.
Ms Akua Donkor, 72, died on Monday, October 28, 2024, at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge Hospital), a family source has disclosed.
The source indicated that she first reported at the Nsawam Government Hospital in the Eastern Region with respiratory issues, after which she was referred to the Ridge Hospital, where she passed on.
Since her demise was announced by the family, tributes had been pouring in from various personalities, including the leadership and supporters of various political parties, journalists, well-wishers and sympathisers.
Before her death, the late presidential candidate of the GFP was renowned for her spirited presence in the Ghanaian political landscape and staunch advocate for the rights of farmers and women.
Also, her bold and outspoken demeanour enabled her to capture the attention of the public, especially the grassroots she represented.
Having contested two previous elections, Ms Donkor was listed as the third candidate on the ballot paper for the December 7 Presidential race.
BY TIMES REPORTER