Ghana’s Opposition Leader John Mahama Rejects Election Date Change

In a move that has sparked political debate across Ghana, the opposition leader, John Mahama, has vocally opposed the Electoral Commission’s proposal to shift the general elections from December to November this year. The commission had argued that an earlier date would provide ample time for the meticulous management of electoral processes, especially if a run-off were necessary. However, Mahama, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), disputes the feasibility and intentions behind this suggestion.

During a workshop with the Minority Caucus at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho, Mahama expressed scepticism towards the commission’s readiness for such a change. He pointed out the absence of a detailed election calendar for the year, despite it being over a month into the election year, as a clear sign of the commission’s lack of preparation. Mahama’s concerns are further compounded by logistical issues witnessed during the December 2023 District Level Elections, which he believes underscore the commission’s current unpreparedness for an electoral exercise in November.

Moreover, Mahama criticised the proposal as lacking in good faith and suggested it might be part of a broader strategy by the ruling government to influence the election’s outcome in favour of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He warned against attempts to “undermine the credibility of the elections,” reflecting the high stakes of the upcoming electoral process and the deep-seated tensions between Ghana’s leading political factions.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church has also entered the fray, requesting the Electoral Commission to reconsider the traditional election date of 7 December, which coincides with their day of worship. This religious consideration adds another layer to the debate over the election date, highlighting the complex interplay between governance, civic duties, and religious observances in Ghana.

Amid these controversies, the Electoral Commission has floated the idea of declaring election day a national holiday to encourage voter turnout. This proposal, while separate, could potentially address some concerns about election day accessibility but does not directly address the opposition’s apprehensions.

As Ghana navigates these pre-election debates, the call for a transparent, fair, and credible election process becomes increasingly paramount. The opposition’s stance, led by Mahama, underscores a critical demand for electoral integrity and the proper functioning of democratic institutions in the lead-up to one of the most consequential political milestones in Ghana’s Fourth Republic.