The High Court has rejected petitions filed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) challenging the results of the 2024 parliamentary elections in Ahafo Ano South West, Obuasi East, and Ahafo Ano North constituencies.
The ruling party had sought to overturn the victories of New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidates in these constituencies, claiming its candidates were the legitimate winners. The NDC, through its counsel Evans Amankwah and supported by regional executives and affected parliamentary candidates, argued that the Electoral Commission’s declarations were unlawful.
However, the court upheld objections raised by lawyers for the NPP MPs, who contended that the NDC failed to meet critical legal timelines. Specifically, the petitioners did not apply for determination of security for costs within the mandatory 21-day period after the election results were gazetted.
In its judgment, the court agreed with the NPP’s procedural arguments and dismissed all three petitions. The NDC was further ordered to pay costs: GH¢10,000 in the Ahafo Ano North case, and GH¢30,000 each for the Ahafo Ano South West and Obuasi East petitions.
This ruling solidifies the NPP’s parliamentary majority in these constituencies and represents another legal setback for the NDC’s post-election challenges. The court’s emphasis on strict adherence to electoral petition procedures underscores the technical precision required in contesting election results under Ghana’s legal framework.
The dismissed petitions follow a series of similar election disputes across the country, highlighting the continuing tensions between Ghana’s two major political parties even months after the 2024 general elections. Legal experts note this decision may influence how future electoral petitions are framed, particularly regarding compliance with statutory timelines and procedural requirements.
With these cases concluded, attention now shifts to other pending election petitions and their potential impact on Ghana’s political landscape as the nation moves further into the current parliamentary term. The rulings reinforce the judiciary’s role as final arbiter in electoral disputes, a critical function in maintaining Ghana’s democratic credentials.