You’re Playing with Fire" – Otokunor Responds to EC's Ballot Shortage in Volta Region

Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) 2024 Planning Committee, has expressed deep concerns over the Electoral Commission’s (EC) recent announcement regarding a shortage of ballot papers for the upcoming elections. The shortage, which affects five constituencies in the Volta Region, has raised alarm bells among political figures, with Otokunor accusing the EC of actions that could undermine the integrity of the December 7, 2024 elections.

In a letter dated November 28, 2024, the EC informed political parties and presidential candidates of the shortfall of both presidential and parliamentary ballot papers in the constituencies of Keta, Ketu North, Ho Central, Hohoe, and Ho West. The letter stated that the shortage would be addressed by printing additional ballot papers at Acts Commercials on November 29, 2024. The EC also requested that political parties and independent presidential candidates send two representatives each to observe the printing process in an effort to ensure transparency.

While the EC has outlined steps to rectify the situation, including providing an opportunity for party representatives to oversee the printing of the ballots, the announcement has sparked significant concern, particularly from the NDC. Dr. Otokunor, a senior figure within the party, voiced his apprehension on social media, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. He questioned why the ballot paper shortages appeared to be limited to the Volta Region, a stronghold of the NDC, and warned that such issues could be seen as attempts to compromise the election process.

In his post on X (formerly Twitter) on November 29, 2024, Otokunor directly addressed the EC, stating, “This Electoral Commission is playing with fire!! Why do you get shortages in only Volta Region? @ECGhanaOfficial, this your continuous attempt to compromise the elections, will be resisted and you will regret the implications.” His remarks reflect the growing concern within the NDC that the EC’s handling of the ballot shortages could be part of a broader pattern of actions aimed at undermining the upcoming elections.

Otokunor’s criticism of the EC is not without precedent. Over the course of the election cycle, the NDC has raised multiple concerns about the EC’s decisions and actions, alleging that they could potentially harm the credibility of the election results. The party has questioned the transparency of the election process, and Otokunor’s latest comments underscore the ongoing tension between the NDC and the EC.

The Volta Region, which has traditionally been a stronghold of the NDC, is particularly sensitive in the context of this election. Any logistical issues or irregularities in the election process in this region are likely to be scrutinized heavily, both by political parties and the public. Otokunor’s concerns reflect fears that such issues could lead to doubts about the legitimacy of the election results, especially in a politically charged environment leading up to the vote.

Dr. Otokunor also emphasized that any efforts to compromise the elections would not go unchallenged. He made it clear that the NDC would resist any attempt to undermine the democratic process. His statement serves as a warning to the EC that it will be held accountable for any actions or decisions perceived to be harmful to the integrity of the election. The NDC is making it clear that they will be closely monitoring the situation, particularly in the Volta Region, where any irregularities could have far-reaching implications.

As the country prepares for the December 7 elections, the EC’s handling of the ballot paper shortage issue is becoming a focal point of political debate. The announcement has added to the growing sense of uncertainty and mistrust in the election process. With the election day fast approaching, both the EC and political parties are under intense pressure to ensure that the elections are free, fair, and transparent.

The call for transparency and accountability is likely to continue in the coming days as political parties, particularly the NDC, demand greater clarity on the steps being taken to address the shortage of ballot papers. Otokunor’s comments highlight the broader concerns about the potential for electoral manipulation, and the need for all stakeholders to work together to ensure the credibility of the December 7 elections.

Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor’s reaction to the EC’s ballot paper shortage announcement reflects the heightened political tensions in the lead-up to Ghana’s 2024 elections. His concerns about the integrity of the electoral process, particularly in the Volta Region, underline the need for transparency, accountability, and vigilance in the final days leading up to the vote. As the EC works to resolve the issue, the political climate remains tense, with all eyes on the commission’s actions and the outcome of the upcoming elections.