Ghana Electoral Commission has resumed printing presidential ballot papers for the upcoming December 7 elections, following a suspension triggered by the death of one of the candidates, Akua Donkor. The 72-year-old politician, who had been running on the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) ticket, passed away on October 28 in Accra after reportedly complaining of abdominal pains.
After Donkor’s death, her party nominated Kwabena Agyeman Appiah Kubi, a radio host in his early 40s, as its new presidential candidate. However, the Electoral Commission rejected his nomination, citing ‘errors and illegalities’ in his nomination forms.
Despite the change in candidates, the Electoral Commission confirmed that Donkor’s name, image, and party logo would remain on the ballot. The commission clarified that voters would be informed not to vote for the deceased candidate, and any votes cast for Donkor would be annulled.
As Ghana gears up for the election, the race is expected to be dominated by two main contenders: Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, representing the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), and former president John Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). Both are vying to succeed President Nana Akufo-Addo, who is stepping down after serving his two-term limit.
With Donkor’s death and the ensuing changes, analysts say the race is now even more crucial, as Ghana prepares for a key electoral showdown.
Credit: Africabrifieng
