Akua Donkor’s Death: EC suspends presidential ballot printing, re-opens nomination for GFP

The Electoral Commission of Ghana says it has suspended the printing of presidential ballot papers for the 2024 general elections following the death of the Presidential Candidate of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), Madam Akua Donkor.

According to a statement issued by the Commission on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, it has also asked the GFP to make arrangements to nominate a new candidate in line with Article 50 (4) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.

“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.

“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 as follows: ‘where at the close of nominations, but before the election, one of the candidates dies, a further period of ten days shall be allowed for nominations...’” the statement said.

Madam Akua Donkor, one of 13 candidates approved by the EC for the 2024 presidential election, died at the Ridge Hospital on Monday night following a short illness. She was 72 years old.

The EC, in its statement on Tuesday, said it has informed the GFP to make arrangements for the nomination of a new candidate while a suspension has been placed on the printing of ballot papers.

“The Commission has since informed the GFP to make arrangements to nominate a new candidate and inform the Commission accordingly.

“In the meantime, the Commission has suspended the printing of Presidential Ballot Papers, which was near completion,” the statement added.

Akua Donkor had nominated broadcaster Kwabena Agyeman Appiah Kubi, popularly known as Roman Fada, as her running mate ahead of the December 7 presidential polls.

Her party is yet to issue a statement on her death and the next line of action for the GFP.

Read the full statement by the EC below:

GA/KA

Watch the latest episode of Everyday People on GhanaWeb TV below: