The Electoral Commission (EC) has confirmed that it will uphold the initial ballot order for the upcoming 2024 presidential election despite the disqualification of Philip Appiah Kubi, the Ghana Freedom Party’s (GFP) replacement nominee for the late Akua Donkor. 

This decision, announced by EC Chairperson, Mrs Jean Mensa during an emergency Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday (November 12), aims to ensure the integrity and smooth progression of the electoral process.

Addressing party representatives, Mrs Mensa stated that the removal of the GFP candidate from the race does not require a change in the ballot layout, as the EC’s preparations are well advanced. 

She disclosed that the printing of presidential ballots is now 90 percent complete, underscoring the Commission’s dedication to meeting its deadlines and ensuring a timely election process.

“We are here to inform you of the Commission’s decision to maintain the presidential ballot as it is,” she said. “As you may be aware, with representatives in the printing houses, we are almost 90 percent complete with the printing of presidential ballots.”

Mr. Philip Appiah Kubi, who stepped in to replace GFP founder and initial candidate Akua Donkor after her passing on October 28, has been disqualified from the race.

This is because the EC found errors and illegalities on the nomination forms and gave the GFP to correct the errors.

In terms of the illegalities, the EC explained that it found the party had used voters from different districts representing other districts.

The EC’s decision to maintain the existing ballot order, according to Ms. Mensa, was made to avoid any logistical complications and ensure that election materials are ready well in advance of voting day.

The EC’s announcement is a crucial step toward finalising preparations as Ghana gears up for the December 7 elections.