Kofi Annan pushes for reforms in Ghana's electoral system

Former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan has called for reforms in Ghana's electoral system to address the flaws that were identified during the hearing of the election petition challenging John Mahama's presidency.

He said the fact that the matter has been successfully adjudicated "must not blind us to the flaws in our electoral system that the judicial review has brought to light".

This was contained in a statement issued by the former UN Boss a day after Ghana's Supreme Court dismissed a petition by three leading members of the opposition New Patriotic Party, challenging the declaration of John Mahama as winner of the December 2012 presidential election.

“I congratulate President Mahama on the confirmation of his electoral victory, and the Supreme Court for its rigorous examination of the complex questions that came before the Court for adjudication.

"I also congratulate the New Patriotic Party and its leader, Nana Akufo-Addo, for the spirit of responsibility that they have demonstrated by respecting the ruling of the court. By doing so, they have helped to further entrench the rule of law and deepen democracy in our country.

"That we were able to resolve this contested electoral result peacefully through our justice system is an encouraging illustration of the progress we have made as a society over the past two decades. Indeed, this transparent and impartial audit of an election by a court sets a precedent for Africa as a whole of which we can be proud. Ghana has once again lived up to its reputation as a beacon of democracy on the continent. This is an achievement in its own right, but also a solid foundation for lasting stability and prosperity.

"This success must not blind us to the flaws in our electoral system that the judicial review has brought to light. All concerned need to work energetically to ensure that these flaws are addressed through the necessary institutional reforms.

We have a bright future to build together, as the Ghanaian people. That future begins today,” the statement concluded.