The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Effutu constituency has expressed alarm over the sudden transfer of the Electoral Commissioner, Madam Emelia Ama Akotiah, just days before the end of the limited registration exercise. The NDC is suspecting foul play, citing a possible manipulation.
At a press conference, James Kofi Annan, the NDC’s parliamentary candidate for Effutu, questioned the timing of the transfer, given the ongoing registration exercise and the proximity to the December 7 polls. “Why transfer an officer at such an ungodly hour when you know there’s an ongoing registration exercise and an impending transfer to be done?” Annan asked.
Annan further queried the Electoral Commission’s decision to transfer Madam Akotiah with immediate effect, especially since she had reportedly been working to correct anomalies from the 2020 elections. “If you wanted to undertake such an administrative duty, you know that before registrations are started, there are meetings to make decisions around the elections. So why wait until after all of these registrations and then transfer the person with immediate effect?” he said.
The NDC is also alleging that Madam Akotiah had an altercation with elements within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) leadership, which may have instigated her transfer. The party is demanding clarity on the matter, citing concerns about the Electoral Commission’s integrity.
