The Electoral Commission (EC) has halted the printing of presidential ballot papers after the sudden passing of Madam Akua Donkor, the Presidential Candidate of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP). Donkor’s death, confirmed on October 29, 2024, comes just weeks before the general election, creating new considerations for the electoral process.
In an official statement, EC Deputy Chairman of Operations, Samuel Tettey, extended condolences to the family of the late candidate. “The Electoral Commission has today received information on the unfortunate passing of the Presidential Candidate of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), Madam Akua Donkor. May she rest in peace,” he stated.
The Commission referred to Article 50(4) of the 1992 Constitution, which allows for a ten-day window to nominate a new candidate if a presidential candidate dies after the close of nominations but before the election. However, the EC noted that the current Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (C.I. 127) lack specific guidelines for implementing this constitutional provision, adding complexity to the process.
To ensure compliance, the EC has directed the GFP to initiate the selection and nomination of a new presidential candidate, urging the party to notify the Commission promptly once a replacement is identified.
As a result, the EC has suspended the near-completed printing of presidential ballots to allow for any necessary adjustments.
Madam Akua Donkor’s death has prompted condolences from across the political spectrum, highlighting her unique contributions to Ghana’s democratic landscape. The Electoral Commission and the broader political community now await further developments as the Ghana Freedom Party navigates this transitional period ahead of the upcoming election.
