For Immediate Release Accra
2nd May, 2024
The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) commends the Ghana Police, other security agencies and the people of Ejisu for the peaceful conduct of the By-Election held on 30th April, 2024. FOSDA is however deeply concerned about the security implications of the numerous allegations of electoral bribery during the by-election.
We are particularly concerned about the reported bribery of EC Personnel by the Member of Parliament for Kwadaso Constituency in the Ashanti Region, Professor Kingsley Nyarko. We therefore call on the Special Prosecutor to conduct swift and thorough investigations into the allegations to protect the credibility of the by-election and sustain the peace and security of the area and country in general.
We are concerned about the several videos circulating on social media indicating behaviours relating to alleged electoral malpractices, monetisation and distribution of Indian Hemp to entice the youth to participate in the electoral process.
In one of the viral videos the Member of Parliament for Kwadaso Constituency in the Ashanti Region, Professor Kingsley Nyarko is seen handing over an envelope suspected to contain cash to some Electoral Commission (EC) officials at a polling centre at Ejisu.
While we congratulate the Electoral Commission (EC) for taking immediate steps to withdraw the two temporary staff members following the alarm of wrong doing, we call on the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to wade into the matter.
We implore the OSP to expand investigations into these allegations and counter allegation and establish the truth.
We believe such an investigation will enhance the credibility of the elections as well as preparations going into the 2024 General Elections.
We are concerned that if these allegations are not addressed swiftly and decisively, the 2024 general elections will be adversely impacted.
Theodora W. Anti
Executive Director
Contact No. 0205336268
Email: Theodora@fosda.org
Photo Credit: Citinews
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