Ghana Electoral Commission Withdraws Two Staff Over Bribery Allegations in Ejisu By-Election

The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has withdrawn two temporary staff members from the Ejisu by-election at the Fumesua Pentecost Church polling station following allegations of bribery captured in a viral video. The EC has held preliminary discussions with the Police Service and requested a criminal investigation into the alleged bribery attempt.

The video shows the New Patriotic Party MP for Kwadaso, Prof Kingsley Nyarko, offering a white envelope, which he claims contained cash, to two election officers. The two officers involved have been identified as Regina Serwaa, Ballot Issuer, and George Sasu, Presiding Officer. Prof Nyarko has denied the bribery allegations, stating that he could not have attempted to bribe the officers in the open.

In response to the incident, the EC's Deputy Chairman in Charge of Operations, Samuel Tettey, issued a press release stating that the Commission has withdrawn the two temporary staff while investigations take place. The EC emphasized its commitment to upholding integrity, truth, and transparency, and stated that it will not tolerate actions that tarnish the institution's integrity.

Why this matters: The alleged bribery attempt during the Ejisu by-election raises concerns about the integrity of Ghana's electoral process. The EC's swift response to the alleged bribery incident and commitment to investigating the incident demonstrate the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability in elections.

The Ejisu by-election was prompted by the death of the incumbent NPP MP and Deputy Finance Minister for the constituency, John Kumah. The leading contenders in the race are the NPP's Kwabena Boateng and former MP Kwabena Aduomi, who is running as an independent candidate. The by-election is critical as it could affect the control of Parliament, with the NPP Majority group in danger of losing its one-seat advantage over the NDC Minority.

The EC has pledged to release a detailed report on the incident in due course, underscoring its commitment to transparency and accountability. "The Commission has taken immediate steps and has withdrawn the two temporary staff while investigations take place," stated the EC in its press release. The Commission reiterated its dedication to upholding the principles of integrity and transparency in the electoral process.

Key Takeaways

• EC withdraws 2 staff over alleged bribery in Ejisu by-election, requests police investigation.
• Video shows NPP MP offering cash to election officers; MP denies bribery allegations.
• EC emphasizes commitment to integrity, transparency, and will not tolerate actions that tarnish its image.
• Ejisu by-election is critical as it could affect control of Parliament, with NPP majority at risk.
• EC pledges to release detailed report on the incident, underscoring transparency and accountability.