WPV affirms EC obligation to create Constituencies

Accra, Aug 31, GNA - The World Peace Volunteers (WPV) said on Friday though the Electoral Commission (EC) has a legal obligation in creating new constituencies per the 1992 constitution, it was concerned about the Commission's ability to supervise parliamentary primaries in the 45 constituencies for all the political parties.

The WPV described EC as a respectable institution with credibility both within and outside the country but cautioned the Commission to avoid any act with the potential of bringing about violence especially as the country prepared for the December polls.

The WPV said in a statement signed by Mr Seth Osei Acheampong to the Ghana News Agency in Accra that it was concerned about the Commission's ability to supervise parliamentary primaries in the 45 constituencies for all the political parties.

"The legitimate concern of WPV about the creation of 45 new constituencies is that it's too close to the December General Elections and may put pressure on the already exhausted roles and functions of the Commission."

The WPV also noted that looking at the electoral calendar which includes the opening of the voters register for verification, opening of nominations....”the legitimate concern is that if these constituencies are passed by parliament EC's operational attention will be divided.

“This we believe should be avoided since it will put a lot of stress on the Commission...it will therefore be in the interest of the country at large if the EC heeds to calls by some civil society organisations to withdraw the legislative instrument from parliament”.

GNA