Kennedy Agyapong is one of the leading aspirants of the NPP
Political analyst Emmanuel Alex Nti has provided a legal defense for comments made by Kennedy Agyapong regarding his decision not to concede defeat in any election until an official declaration is made by the Electoral Commission (EC).
Nti contended that the former Assin Central Member of Parliament’s remarks are grounded in law.
Speaking in an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the analyst underscored that the law explicitly mandates the Electoral Commission as the sole body authorized to declare election results.
He noted that while an individual may choose to accept or concede defeat ahead of an official declaration, it is prudent and proper to allow the EC to make the final announcement to prevent unnecessary tension.
Agyapong, in his capacity as a presidential candidate for his party, had publicly stated that he would never concede defeat in any election unless the Electoral Commission officially announces the final results.
Addressing party supporters during his campaign tour of the Savannah Region, he emphasized his determination to maintain this firm stance throughout the electoral process, particularly in the face of early projections or unofficial announcements.
“Until the last constituency is counted, if I am a presidential candidate, I will never accept defeat,” he declared.
The analyst highlighted a critical distinction between legality and convention. He explained that certain electoral decisions are defined by law, while others are matters of political convention that remain consistent with legal principles.
He pointed out that Agyapong’s assertion aligns with legal provisions, as only the presiding officer of the Electoral Commission has the legitimate authority to declare an election winner in Ghana. Therefore, any other election results presented by individuals or entities prior to the EC’s official announcement are not legally recognized.
Nti affirmed that Agyapong is “correct and adhering to the law” by stating he will not concede until the EC makes its declaration after the final count. Conversely, he noted that if someone chooses to accept defeat prematurely to avert political chaos, that too is a valid position consistent with the law.
However, he clarified that this conventional approach, though useful in maintaining political stability, does not reflect the core legal framework that governs the official declaration of election results.