By Edmund Mingle
Tuesday, 16 December 2008
The vanquished presidential candidates have resolved to push for an all inclusive government irrespective of which of the two parties for the December 28, run-off wins the presidency.
At a meeting at the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel in Accra called at the instance of the flag-bearer of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, they agreed on a common resolution to be presented to the incoming presidency to ensure an all inclusive government.
That, according to the candidates, was important because of the need for the next government to engage the expertise of all for rapid national development irrespective of their political affiliation.
Those at the meeting were Dr. Nduom, who had the opportunity to serve in the outgoing administration of the NPP, Emmanuel Ansah-Antwi of the Democratic Freedom Party (DFP), Kwabena Adjei of the Reformed Patriotic Democrats (RPD), Thomas Ward-Brew of the Democratic People’s Party (DPP), Kwesi Amoafo-Yeboah, an Independent candidate and Rev. Samuel Ofori Ampofo, flag- bearer of the Ghana National Party (GNP) which did not contest the poll.
Dr. Edward Mahama, flag-bearer of the People’s National Convention (PNC) was absent for unexplained reasons although he was invited.
They did not state what criteria the incoming government should use in engaging brains across the political divide, but they were of the view that the government should, in the interest of the nation feel free to engage others in the governance of the country and to avoid victimisation.
Among other things, they also unanimously resolved to push for state funding of political parties, which they believe would enable the smaller parties to be able to compete with the bigger ones during elections.
They indicated that inadequate financing hindered them to effectively campaign which resulted in their poor performance at the poll.
State funding, they said could address some of the financial difficulties to enable them to perform better.
In addition, they thanked the media for the support but urged the state broadcaster, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation to do more in giving equal attention and coverage to all parties.
In last Sunday’s presidential poll, the CPP occupied a distant third spot with 108,967 votes representing 1.38 per cent while the PNC was planted on the fourth spot with 64,042 votes, representing 0.81 per cent.
The DFP was fifth with 24,302 votes, representing 0.31 per cent and Mr Kwesi Amoafo-Yeboah, the Independent candidate, occupied the sixth spot with 17,663 votes representing 0.22 per cent.
The DPP came seventh with 7,670 votes, representing 0.10 per cent and the RPD was last with 6,336 votes, representing 0.08 per cent.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
NPP,NDC Kicks Off
By Dave Agbenu and Edmund Mingle
Friday, 12 December 2008
The two frontrunners in the December 28 presidential re-run, the New Patritic Party and the National Democratic Congress have started their campaigning to garner votes in the December 28 run-off.
Shortly after Dr. Kwadwo afari-Gyan, Chairman of the Electoral Commission announced that none of their presidential candidates could obtain the required number of votes to become president of Ghana, representatives of the parties begun sending signals to their supporters across the country on the re-run.
Party songs and jingles were also heard blurring out of campaign vehicles and radio sets.
In addition, party representatives were on hand to assure their supporters that the game is on.
While Jake Obetsebi Lamptey, Campaign Chairman of the NPP expressed optimism that the party would win the run-off convincingly, Alex Segbefia, Campaign Coordinator of the NDC, urged the supporters of be steadfast saying, "the journey for change has just begun."
From the results of last Sunday's presidential and parliamentary poll, the NPP's Nana Akufo polled 4,159,439 votes (49.13per cent) while Prof. Mills obtained 4,056,634 votes(47.92per cent), less than 50 plus one percentage needed to quality any of them to be declared president. The NDC however obtained a slim majority in Parliament.
Mr. Obetsebi-Lamptey noted that the NPP was convinced of victory because they were ready for the run-off.
That, he said, was stemmed out from the fact that the Party would be modifying its campaign strategy to be able to garner more votes to win the Presidency, although the opposition NDC has a slim majority in Parliament.
Mr. Obetsebi Lamptey, speaking shortly after the declaration of the results of the December 7 poll which did not produce a clear winner for the presidency, the party was would devote all its resources into the campaign for the presidency.
He said although the campaign strategy for the first round was the best, a few modifications would be made to ensure that its maximum benefits were achieved. Meanwhile, Nana Akufo-Addo, NPP's presidential candidate, in his first comments at the beginning of the next round of campaign, was full of praise for Ghanaians for their conduct in the December 7 election. At his residence in Accra, Akufo-Addo told supporters and some media personnel the election was a demonstration of how far Ghana has come with its democracy, adding the Africans can well manage her affairs. He noted that Sunday’s election which resulted in a seemingly balanced parliament could well be chaotic and needed an experience leader and politician to bring all sides on board for purposes of development.
Mr. Segbefia, on the other hand, called on its membership and supporters to rededicate themselves to the cause of the party so as to be able to wrestle power from the New Patriotic Party.
"As we prepare for a run-off we call for a heightening of the fervor and commitment that saw our party achieve what it did in round one," he said in a statement. The party commended its teaming supporters and sympathizers, and Ghanaians in general for the peaceful manner they conducted themselves throughout the election process culminating in the announcement by the EC of the result on Wednesday. The party was particularly grateful for the massive show of support across the country, which it said led to a majority in Parliament and a winning of the Presidential polls in six out of the ten regions. "More significant however is that the NDC did exceptionally well even in areas where it lost with such appreciable votes that go to confirm that the call for change and equity for all is one that is shared by majority of Ghanaians," it noted.
The statement said that based on the results declared by the EC, it was clear that Ghanaians have spoken and have indicated a wish for a change. The party called urged all Ghanaians maintain a high sense of vigilance and peace as "we thread towards the second round voting, and reminded its supporters that there will be trying moments. "The leadership of the NDC calls on all to approach the next round of the process with level-headedness and avoid any acts that will injure the peace," the statement said. It also called on other stakeholders, particularly the media and the security agencies to play their roles responsibly. Prof. Mills, speaking to newsmen earlier at his campaign office in Accra reiterated his pledge to reduce taxes on petroleum products if elected into power in order to assuage the suffering of Ghanaians. He called on the minority parties to join the NDC to unseat the NPP from government.
His statements mark the beginning of three weeks of grueling campaign to herald the December 28 run-off. According to him by results from the first round, the party has the majority seats in parliament and only needed an NDC president to run an efficient government.
Friday, 12 December 2008
The two frontrunners in the December 28 presidential re-run, the New Patritic Party and the National Democratic Congress have started their campaigning to garner votes in the December 28 run-off.
Shortly after Dr. Kwadwo afari-Gyan, Chairman of the Electoral Commission announced that none of their presidential candidates could obtain the required number of votes to become president of Ghana, representatives of the parties begun sending signals to their supporters across the country on the re-run.
Party songs and jingles were also heard blurring out of campaign vehicles and radio sets.
In addition, party representatives were on hand to assure their supporters that the game is on.
While Jake Obetsebi Lamptey, Campaign Chairman of the NPP expressed optimism that the party would win the run-off convincingly, Alex Segbefia, Campaign Coordinator of the NDC, urged the supporters of be steadfast saying, "the journey for change has just begun."
From the results of last Sunday's presidential and parliamentary poll, the NPP's Nana Akufo polled 4,159,439 votes (49.13per cent) while Prof. Mills obtained 4,056,634 votes(47.92per cent), less than 50 plus one percentage needed to quality any of them to be declared president. The NDC however obtained a slim majority in Parliament.
Mr. Obetsebi-Lamptey noted that the NPP was convinced of victory because they were ready for the run-off.
That, he said, was stemmed out from the fact that the Party would be modifying its campaign strategy to be able to garner more votes to win the Presidency, although the opposition NDC has a slim majority in Parliament.
Mr. Obetsebi Lamptey, speaking shortly after the declaration of the results of the December 7 poll which did not produce a clear winner for the presidency, the party was would devote all its resources into the campaign for the presidency.
He said although the campaign strategy for the first round was the best, a few modifications would be made to ensure that its maximum benefits were achieved. Meanwhile, Nana Akufo-Addo, NPP's presidential candidate, in his first comments at the beginning of the next round of campaign, was full of praise for Ghanaians for their conduct in the December 7 election. At his residence in Accra, Akufo-Addo told supporters and some media personnel the election was a demonstration of how far Ghana has come with its democracy, adding the Africans can well manage her affairs. He noted that Sunday’s election which resulted in a seemingly balanced parliament could well be chaotic and needed an experience leader and politician to bring all sides on board for purposes of development.
Mr. Segbefia, on the other hand, called on its membership and supporters to rededicate themselves to the cause of the party so as to be able to wrestle power from the New Patriotic Party.
"As we prepare for a run-off we call for a heightening of the fervor and commitment that saw our party achieve what it did in round one," he said in a statement. The party commended its teaming supporters and sympathizers, and Ghanaians in general for the peaceful manner they conducted themselves throughout the election process culminating in the announcement by the EC of the result on Wednesday. The party was particularly grateful for the massive show of support across the country, which it said led to a majority in Parliament and a winning of the Presidential polls in six out of the ten regions. "More significant however is that the NDC did exceptionally well even in areas where it lost with such appreciable votes that go to confirm that the call for change and equity for all is one that is shared by majority of Ghanaians," it noted.
The statement said that based on the results declared by the EC, it was clear that Ghanaians have spoken and have indicated a wish for a change. The party called urged all Ghanaians maintain a high sense of vigilance and peace as "we thread towards the second round voting, and reminded its supporters that there will be trying moments. "The leadership of the NDC calls on all to approach the next round of the process with level-headedness and avoid any acts that will injure the peace," the statement said. It also called on other stakeholders, particularly the media and the security agencies to play their roles responsibly. Prof. Mills, speaking to newsmen earlier at his campaign office in Accra reiterated his pledge to reduce taxes on petroleum products if elected into power in order to assuage the suffering of Ghanaians. He called on the minority parties to join the NDC to unseat the NPP from government.
His statements mark the beginning of three weeks of grueling campaign to herald the December 28 run-off. According to him by results from the first round, the party has the majority seats in parliament and only needed an NDC president to run an efficient government.
Defeated Aspirants Want An All-Inclusive Govt
By Edmund Mingle
Tuesday, 16 December 2008
The vanquished presidential candidates have resolved to push for an all inclusive government irrespective of which of the two parties for the December 28, run-off wins the presidency.
At a meeting at the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel in Accra called at the instance of the flag-bearer of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, they agreed on a common resolution to be presented to the incoming presidency to ensure an all inclusive government.
That, according to the candidates, was important because of the need for the next government to engage the expertise of all for rapid national development irrespective of their political affiliation.
Those at the meeting were Dr. Nduom, who had the opportunity to serve in the outgoing administration of the NPP, Emmanuel Ansah-Antwi of the Democratic Freedom Party (DFP), Kwabena Adjei of the Reformed Patriotic Democrats (RPD), Thomas Ward-Brew of the Democratic People’s Party (DPP), Kwesi Amoafo-Yeboah, an Independent candidate and Rev. Samuel Ofori Ampofo, flag- bearer of the Ghana National Party (GNP) which did not contest the poll.
Dr. Edward Mahama, flag-bearer of the People’s National Convention (PNC) was absent for unexplained reasons although he was invited.
They did not state what criteria the incoming government should use in engaging brains across the political divide, but they were of the view that the government should, in the interest of the nation feel free to engage others in the governance of the country and to avoid victimisation.
Among other things, they also unanimously resolved to push for state funding of political parties, which they believe would enable the smaller parties to be able to compete with the bigger ones during elections.
They indicated that inadequate financing hindered them to effectively campaign which resulted in their poor performance at the poll.
State funding, they said could address some of the financial difficulties to enable them to perform better.
In addition, they thanked the media for the support but urged the state broadcaster, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation to do more in giving equal attention and coverage to all parties.
In last Sunday’s presidential poll, the CPP occupied a distant third spot with 108,967 votes representing 1.38 per cent while the PNC was planted on the fourth spot with 64,042 votes, representing 0.81 per cent.
The DFP was fifth with 24,302 votes, representing 0.31 per cent and Mr Kwesi Amoafo-Yeboah, the Independent candidate, occupied the sixth spot with 17,663 votes representing 0.22 per cent.
The DPP came seventh with 7,670 votes, representing 0.10 per cent and the RPD was last with 6,336 votes, representing 0.08 per cent.
Tuesday, 16 December 2008
The vanquished presidential candidates have resolved to push for an all inclusive government irrespective of which of the two parties for the December 28, run-off wins the presidency.
At a meeting at the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel in Accra called at the instance of the flag-bearer of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, they agreed on a common resolution to be presented to the incoming presidency to ensure an all inclusive government.
That, according to the candidates, was important because of the need for the next government to engage the expertise of all for rapid national development irrespective of their political affiliation.
Those at the meeting were Dr. Nduom, who had the opportunity to serve in the outgoing administration of the NPP, Emmanuel Ansah-Antwi of the Democratic Freedom Party (DFP), Kwabena Adjei of the Reformed Patriotic Democrats (RPD), Thomas Ward-Brew of the Democratic People’s Party (DPP), Kwesi Amoafo-Yeboah, an Independent candidate and Rev. Samuel Ofori Ampofo, flag- bearer of the Ghana National Party (GNP) which did not contest the poll.
Dr. Edward Mahama, flag-bearer of the People’s National Convention (PNC) was absent for unexplained reasons although he was invited.
They did not state what criteria the incoming government should use in engaging brains across the political divide, but they were of the view that the government should, in the interest of the nation feel free to engage others in the governance of the country and to avoid victimisation.
Among other things, they also unanimously resolved to push for state funding of political parties, which they believe would enable the smaller parties to be able to compete with the bigger ones during elections.
They indicated that inadequate financing hindered them to effectively campaign which resulted in their poor performance at the poll.
State funding, they said could address some of the financial difficulties to enable them to perform better.
In addition, they thanked the media for the support but urged the state broadcaster, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation to do more in giving equal attention and coverage to all parties.
In last Sunday’s presidential poll, the CPP occupied a distant third spot with 108,967 votes representing 1.38 per cent while the PNC was planted on the fourth spot with 64,042 votes, representing 0.81 per cent.
The DFP was fifth with 24,302 votes, representing 0.31 per cent and Mr Kwesi Amoafo-Yeboah, the Independent candidate, occupied the sixth spot with 17,663 votes representing 0.22 per cent.
The DPP came seventh with 7,670 votes, representing 0.10 per cent and the RPD was last with 6,336 votes, representing 0.08 per cent.
Who Will They Back?
Asks Edmund Mingle
Thursday, 11 December 2008
As the presidential election enters a second round, the question needing an answer is which of the smaller parties would back the two main parties that were left standing after last Sunday’s poll.
Some of the parties, like the CPP, claim they would not support any party, but others are yet to decide.
The Democratic Freedom Party (DFP) says it is yet to decide which of the two parties to support in the second round of elections.
The party’s presidential candidate, Emmanuel Ansah-Antwi, told the Times yesterday that the decision as to which direction they would go would have to be taken by the National Executive Committee of the party.
He said the decision whether to back the NDC or NPP would depend on which of the two buys into the DFP’s message of green revolution, technological advancement and rural development.
Mr. Ansah-Antwi said the DFP, which is a breakaway group from the NDC, the largest opposition party, was impressed about its performance at the poll considering the fact that it was only two years old and did not have resources to campaign on a high scale nationally.
“The results show that the DFP is a broad based party because we had votes from across the country,” he said.
Kwesi Amoafo-Yeboah, the only Independent presidential candidate, says he would not ask his supporters to vote for any particular party in the run-off.
“Ghanaians have the ability to choose which party to vote for as they demonstrated in the first round. It’s important to allow the electorate the free hand to decide for themselves their leader.
Speaking on an Accra-based FM, Mr. Amoafo-Yeboah, who garnered a total of about 11,400 votes, thanked Ghanaians for the support.
“I am ready to serve my country in any capacity,” he said, and urged Ghanaians to accept the results of the poll to ensure peace.
Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, presidential candidate of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), who conceded an early defeat on Monday, says he is not supporting any of the two parties.
He said because of his belief in all inclusive government, he cannot lend his support to any particular party.
He explained that all the parties went into the race based on their ideologies and vision for the country, so no party can support the other.
According to him, declaring his backing for any party would risk his being accused of selling out the CPP the members have struggled to rebuild.
He believes that Ghanaians made their wishes known in the first round and should be allowed to go to the polls again with an independent mind.
Benard Monard, General Secretary of the PNC told the Times that the party would be calling an emergency NEC meeting to decide which way to go.
“It has to be a collective decision,” he said.
For Thomas Ward-Brew of the DPP, the decision is yet to be taken.
He told an Accra-based FM yesterday that he would consult his executives on the matter for a common decision to be taken.
Out of the 8,465,834 total valid vote cast the CPP occupies a distance third spot with 113,494 votes representing 1.34 per cent.
The People’s National Convention’s (PNC) Dr Edward Nasigrie Mahama is planted on the fourth spot with 73,494 votes, representing 0.87 per cent.
The DFP is fifth with 27,889 votes, representing 0.33 per cent and Mr Kwesi Amoafo-Yeboah, Independent Presidential Candidate, occupies the sixth spot with 19,342 votes representing 0.23 per cent.
The DPP occupies the seventh position with 8,653 votes, representing 0.10 per cent and Mr Kwabena Adjei of the Reformed Patriotic Democrats is eighth with 6,889 votes, representing 0.08 per cent.
The total rejected ballots of 205,438 (2.4%), was more that the vote gained by each of the small parties.
Thursday, 11 December 2008
As the presidential election enters a second round, the question needing an answer is which of the smaller parties would back the two main parties that were left standing after last Sunday’s poll.
Some of the parties, like the CPP, claim they would not support any party, but others are yet to decide.
The Democratic Freedom Party (DFP) says it is yet to decide which of the two parties to support in the second round of elections.
The party’s presidential candidate, Emmanuel Ansah-Antwi, told the Times yesterday that the decision as to which direction they would go would have to be taken by the National Executive Committee of the party.
He said the decision whether to back the NDC or NPP would depend on which of the two buys into the DFP’s message of green revolution, technological advancement and rural development.
Mr. Ansah-Antwi said the DFP, which is a breakaway group from the NDC, the largest opposition party, was impressed about its performance at the poll considering the fact that it was only two years old and did not have resources to campaign on a high scale nationally.
“The results show that the DFP is a broad based party because we had votes from across the country,” he said.
Kwesi Amoafo-Yeboah, the only Independent presidential candidate, says he would not ask his supporters to vote for any particular party in the run-off.
“Ghanaians have the ability to choose which party to vote for as they demonstrated in the first round. It’s important to allow the electorate the free hand to decide for themselves their leader.
Speaking on an Accra-based FM, Mr. Amoafo-Yeboah, who garnered a total of about 11,400 votes, thanked Ghanaians for the support.
“I am ready to serve my country in any capacity,” he said, and urged Ghanaians to accept the results of the poll to ensure peace.
Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, presidential candidate of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), who conceded an early defeat on Monday, says he is not supporting any of the two parties.
He said because of his belief in all inclusive government, he cannot lend his support to any particular party.
He explained that all the parties went into the race based on their ideologies and vision for the country, so no party can support the other.
According to him, declaring his backing for any party would risk his being accused of selling out the CPP the members have struggled to rebuild.
He believes that Ghanaians made their wishes known in the first round and should be allowed to go to the polls again with an independent mind.
Benard Monard, General Secretary of the PNC told the Times that the party would be calling an emergency NEC meeting to decide which way to go.
“It has to be a collective decision,” he said.
For Thomas Ward-Brew of the DPP, the decision is yet to be taken.
He told an Accra-based FM yesterday that he would consult his executives on the matter for a common decision to be taken.
Out of the 8,465,834 total valid vote cast the CPP occupies a distance third spot with 113,494 votes representing 1.34 per cent.
The People’s National Convention’s (PNC) Dr Edward Nasigrie Mahama is planted on the fourth spot with 73,494 votes, representing 0.87 per cent.
The DFP is fifth with 27,889 votes, representing 0.33 per cent and Mr Kwesi Amoafo-Yeboah, Independent Presidential Candidate, occupies the sixth spot with 19,342 votes representing 0.23 per cent.
The DPP occupies the seventh position with 8,653 votes, representing 0.10 per cent and Mr Kwabena Adjei of the Reformed Patriotic Democrats is eighth with 6,889 votes, representing 0.08 per cent.
The total rejected ballots of 205,438 (2.4%), was more that the vote gained by each of the small parties.
Promises Can't Be Implemented -IEA Report
By Edmund Mingle
Wednesday, 26 November 2008
The numerous promises being made by the presidential candidates contesting the December 7 election cannot be realistically implemented in the short term because the national economy is not in the best position.
Funds cannot be found to implement the promises “even with expected modest additional revenues from oil starting from 2010”.
This is contained in the 2007 Annual Economic Review of the Institute of Economic Affairs, Ghana, which reviewed the performance of the economy for the year considered and its outlook.
The presidential candidates have, during their campaigns, made bold promises, including the introduction of free education from the basic to tertiary level, highly subsidised and mechanised agriculture, construction of more road networks, extension of the school feeding programme, free health care among others to be implemented within two to three years.
The politicians have, however, not given out much information about how they intend to finance their promised initiatives.
But the report indicates that it would be difficult for the economy to finance these since the growth indicators are not favourable.
The report noted that “the increasing expectations and demand of public sector workers for higher wages starting from 2009 when the Fair Wages Commission should start implementing new wage levels, the planned district assembly election in 2010, and the population and agricultural censuses to be undertaken by the Ghana Statistical Service in 2010, and extra outlays on government services to cater for population growth are all additional sources significant increases in government expenditure” which would constrain government spending.
According to the report, the increasing domestic and external debt was also a source of worry which could hinder the achievement of a substantial economic growth in the medium term.
It said that the total public debt currently stands at about 7,800million dollars, which is more than the stock of public debts in January 2001 despite the huge external debt cancellation in 2006.
“While the current total public debt is just under 50 per cent of GDP and does not pose imminent financial threat, it is the rapid rate of increase of total public debts over such a short period of time that is of concern,” the report said.
It projected that the general outlook of the economy in the short to medium term is likely to be characterised by increasing levels on inflation, high budget deficits and widening trade and balance of payment deficits.
Wednesday, 26 November 2008
The numerous promises being made by the presidential candidates contesting the December 7 election cannot be realistically implemented in the short term because the national economy is not in the best position.
Funds cannot be found to implement the promises “even with expected modest additional revenues from oil starting from 2010”.
This is contained in the 2007 Annual Economic Review of the Institute of Economic Affairs, Ghana, which reviewed the performance of the economy for the year considered and its outlook.
The presidential candidates have, during their campaigns, made bold promises, including the introduction of free education from the basic to tertiary level, highly subsidised and mechanised agriculture, construction of more road networks, extension of the school feeding programme, free health care among others to be implemented within two to three years.
The politicians have, however, not given out much information about how they intend to finance their promised initiatives.
But the report indicates that it would be difficult for the economy to finance these since the growth indicators are not favourable.
The report noted that “the increasing expectations and demand of public sector workers for higher wages starting from 2009 when the Fair Wages Commission should start implementing new wage levels, the planned district assembly election in 2010, and the population and agricultural censuses to be undertaken by the Ghana Statistical Service in 2010, and extra outlays on government services to cater for population growth are all additional sources significant increases in government expenditure” which would constrain government spending.
According to the report, the increasing domestic and external debt was also a source of worry which could hinder the achievement of a substantial economic growth in the medium term.
It said that the total public debt currently stands at about 7,800million dollars, which is more than the stock of public debts in January 2001 despite the huge external debt cancellation in 2006.
“While the current total public debt is just under 50 per cent of GDP and does not pose imminent financial threat, it is the rapid rate of increase of total public debts over such a short period of time that is of concern,” the report said.
It projected that the general outlook of the economy in the short to medium term is likely to be characterised by increasing levels on inflation, high budget deficits and widening trade and balance of payment deficits.
EC To Mount Electronic Scoreboards
From Edmund Mingle, Koforidua
Monday, 27 October 2008
The Electoral Commission (EC) will mount electronic scoreboards in all the 10 regional capitals to show the presidential and parliamentary results of the December 7 election.
The scoreboards, said to have been donated by a foreign company, would have one mounted at the Independence Square, Accra representing the national scoreboard to show all the results across the country.
Albert Kofi Arhin, the EC’s Director of Elections, who announced this to journalists undergoing training on election reporting here on Saturday, could not immediately provide the details of the donor, but said the company was being represented by a Ghanaian.
He was optimistic that the electronic boards would speed up the process of providing results of the elections to the public.
If successful, it would be the first time the country would have electronic scoreboards for general elections.
The EC has used manual scoreboards, which involve EC personnel climbing ladders to write the results on the large boards, since the 1992, 1996 and 2000 elections in all the regional capitals.
It did not use scoreboards for the 2004 elections, but rather had one mounted at the Ghana International Press Centre where the media disseminated the results.
Mr. Arhin, speaking on preparations towards December 7, gave the assurance that adequate measures have been instituted to ensure transparency and to plug all loop holes that could be used to rig.
For instance, he said the silicon level in the indelible ink has been increased to make it impossible for voters to erase the marks on their thumbs.
In addition, he said those who have registered more than once can only vote once because any attempt to vote twice would be immediately detected at the polling station.
He said also that the declaration forms on which the returning officers issues the results and signed by the party agents, would have carbon copies distributed to the party agents, rather than the previous method of photocopying the declaration form for distribution to the agents.
“To the extent that we are asking all the parties to present reliable polling agents, it will be impossible to rig the elections by any party,” he said.
Charles Addei, Director for Training at the EC, said the Commission is expected to engage more than 110,600 temporary staff to man the polling stations during the December 7 election.
The temporary workers, whose services he considered as crucial in the conduct of the elections, are made of 110,000 polling station staff consisting of one presiding member and assistants for each of the about 22,000 polling stations.
In addition, there would be 5,690 staff for the constituency, consisting 230 Returning officers and two deputies each for each of the 230 constituencies.
He said most of the temporary staff, who have been vetted to ascertain their credibility and neutrality, are being educated about their duties on election day.“Whether the elections day
He said although the EC has scrutinised them after receiving the applications for the job, “we can’t entirely vouch for their credibility and neutrality. We can only hope for their reliability.”
Monday, 27 October 2008
The Electoral Commission (EC) will mount electronic scoreboards in all the 10 regional capitals to show the presidential and parliamentary results of the December 7 election.
The scoreboards, said to have been donated by a foreign company, would have one mounted at the Independence Square, Accra representing the national scoreboard to show all the results across the country.
Albert Kofi Arhin, the EC’s Director of Elections, who announced this to journalists undergoing training on election reporting here on Saturday, could not immediately provide the details of the donor, but said the company was being represented by a Ghanaian.
He was optimistic that the electronic boards would speed up the process of providing results of the elections to the public.
If successful, it would be the first time the country would have electronic scoreboards for general elections.
The EC has used manual scoreboards, which involve EC personnel climbing ladders to write the results on the large boards, since the 1992, 1996 and 2000 elections in all the regional capitals.
It did not use scoreboards for the 2004 elections, but rather had one mounted at the Ghana International Press Centre where the media disseminated the results.
Mr. Arhin, speaking on preparations towards December 7, gave the assurance that adequate measures have been instituted to ensure transparency and to plug all loop holes that could be used to rig.
For instance, he said the silicon level in the indelible ink has been increased to make it impossible for voters to erase the marks on their thumbs.
In addition, he said those who have registered more than once can only vote once because any attempt to vote twice would be immediately detected at the polling station.
He said also that the declaration forms on which the returning officers issues the results and signed by the party agents, would have carbon copies distributed to the party agents, rather than the previous method of photocopying the declaration form for distribution to the agents.
“To the extent that we are asking all the parties to present reliable polling agents, it will be impossible to rig the elections by any party,” he said.
Charles Addei, Director for Training at the EC, said the Commission is expected to engage more than 110,600 temporary staff to man the polling stations during the December 7 election.
The temporary workers, whose services he considered as crucial in the conduct of the elections, are made of 110,000 polling station staff consisting of one presiding member and assistants for each of the about 22,000 polling stations.
In addition, there would be 5,690 staff for the constituency, consisting 230 Returning officers and two deputies each for each of the 230 constituencies.
He said most of the temporary staff, who have been vetted to ascertain their credibility and neutrality, are being educated about their duties on election day.“Whether the elections day
He said although the EC has scrutinised them after receiving the applications for the job, “we can’t entirely vouch for their credibility and neutrality. We can only hope for their reliability.”
PNC Outdoors Running Mate
By Edmund Mingle
Wednesday, 15 October 2008
Petra Maria Amegashie, the running mate of Dr. Edward Mahama, Presidential aspirant of the People’s National Convention (PNC), yesterday publicly accepted the offer to partner the PNC leader in the 2008 election, but said she is “not playing second fiddle.”
“I have not settled for second place and I am not playing second fiddle,” she said, explaining that she was backing Dr. Mahama’s campaign with full force as she would have done if she had gone independent.
She said, she would use the same courage with which she had declared her intention to vie for the presidency which is characterised by male dominance, to energise the PNC to win political power.
“I and the PNC and for that matter, Dr. Mahama, are joining forces to face the challenge of wresing power,” a confident looking Ms Amegashie said at a news conference at which she was introduced to the media.
Wearing a white cloth with blue flowery designs, Ms. Amegashie said she had fully accepted the offer and was ready to face the challenges ahead. She was fully aware of the political terrain and the fact that it had not been too friendly to women.
Speaking in a low but firm tone, Ms Amegashie described her selection by the PNC as a success for the PNC and Ghana, and pledged her commitment and support to ensure victory for the party.
The nomination of Ms. Amegashie, 49, a Catholic evangelist and businesswoman, as the running mate to Dr. Mahama was endorsed by the party’s National Executive Committee in Accra on Monday, making the PNC the only party so far to have selected a female running mate for the December election.
Though she had earlier picked nomination forms to file as an independent presidential candidate, Dr. Mahama managed to convince her to be his running mate.
Asked what motivated her to go into politics, Ms Amegashie said she was heeding a divine calling to help save Ghanaians from hardship.
She told Dr Mahama: “I represent a voice for women, children, the youth and the disadvantaged in society, and I will be there to support you as Vice President.
“More than anything else, I want to unify our country and to renew the Ghanaian spirit and sense of purpose,” she stated.
She described Dr. Mahama as a selfless individual committed to building a peaceful democracy, saying his vision for Ghana has a major role for women.
“Dr. Mahama offers a new brand of politicking which is issues based and focused on improving the lot of Ghanaians,” she said and added that she accepted the offer because she found her vision in agreement with that of the PNC’s vision as outlined in the party’s manifesto.
“I am bringing a new force of energy into the party,” she said.
In what could be described as comments marking the beginning of her campaign on the ticket of the PNC, she said a PNC government would be committed to the principle that local government was meaningful only when people participated in decision making.She called on all stakeholders in election 2008 to join the PNC to respect the Political Parties Code of Conduct to ensure peaceful campaigning.
Wednesday, 15 October 2008
Petra Maria Amegashie, the running mate of Dr. Edward Mahama, Presidential aspirant of the People’s National Convention (PNC), yesterday publicly accepted the offer to partner the PNC leader in the 2008 election, but said she is “not playing second fiddle.”
“I have not settled for second place and I am not playing second fiddle,” she said, explaining that she was backing Dr. Mahama’s campaign with full force as she would have done if she had gone independent.
She said, she would use the same courage with which she had declared her intention to vie for the presidency which is characterised by male dominance, to energise the PNC to win political power.
“I and the PNC and for that matter, Dr. Mahama, are joining forces to face the challenge of wresing power,” a confident looking Ms Amegashie said at a news conference at which she was introduced to the media.
Wearing a white cloth with blue flowery designs, Ms. Amegashie said she had fully accepted the offer and was ready to face the challenges ahead. She was fully aware of the political terrain and the fact that it had not been too friendly to women.
Speaking in a low but firm tone, Ms Amegashie described her selection by the PNC as a success for the PNC and Ghana, and pledged her commitment and support to ensure victory for the party.
The nomination of Ms. Amegashie, 49, a Catholic evangelist and businesswoman, as the running mate to Dr. Mahama was endorsed by the party’s National Executive Committee in Accra on Monday, making the PNC the only party so far to have selected a female running mate for the December election.
Though she had earlier picked nomination forms to file as an independent presidential candidate, Dr. Mahama managed to convince her to be his running mate.
Asked what motivated her to go into politics, Ms Amegashie said she was heeding a divine calling to help save Ghanaians from hardship.
She told Dr Mahama: “I represent a voice for women, children, the youth and the disadvantaged in society, and I will be there to support you as Vice President.
“More than anything else, I want to unify our country and to renew the Ghanaian spirit and sense of purpose,” she stated.
She described Dr. Mahama as a selfless individual committed to building a peaceful democracy, saying his vision for Ghana has a major role for women.
“Dr. Mahama offers a new brand of politicking which is issues based and focused on improving the lot of Ghanaians,” she said and added that she accepted the offer because she found her vision in agreement with that of the PNC’s vision as outlined in the party’s manifesto.
“I am bringing a new force of energy into the party,” she said.
In what could be described as comments marking the beginning of her campaign on the ticket of the PNC, she said a PNC government would be committed to the principle that local government was meaningful only when people participated in decision making.She called on all stakeholders in election 2008 to join the PNC to respect the Political Parties Code of Conduct to ensure peaceful campaigning.
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