Akua Donkor's death: What will happen if Ghana Freedom Party withdraws from the election? — Dr. Otchere-Ankrah quizzes EC

Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah has questioned the Electoral Commission (EC) about contingency plans following the passing of Akua Donkor, the Ghana Freedom Party's (GFP) flagbearer.

Madam Akua Donkor, who was the third candidate on the ballot for the upcoming presidential election, passed away at the age of 72 on Monday, October 28, 2024, after a brief illness.

The EC has since suspended the printing of presidential ballots and granted the GFP a 10-day period to nominate a new candidate, in line with Article 50(4) of the 1992 Constitution.

According to this article, if a presidential candidate dies before an election, a 10-day window for new nominations is mandated.

The EC confirmed that printing, which was nearly complete, has been paused to accommodate the GFP new flagbearer.

However, speaking on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” morning show, Dr. Otchere-Ankrah posed a critical question, asking the EC what would happen if the GFP chose not to replace Akua Donkor and withdrew from the election entirely.

“If the party says they can't find a replacement, what’s the EC’s next step?” he inquired.

He also urged political stakeholders to consider peace and stability as the country heads into the December 7 election.

Addressing Ghanaian youth, he cautioned them against engaging in violence or succumbing to political influences that could disturb the electoral process.