Electoral Commission Dismisses Plans for New CI: Recent reports from JoyNews indicate that the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has no plans to introduce any new Constitutional Instrument (CI) in Parliament ahead of the 2024 general elections.

This revelation has sparked significant debate, especially following recent calls for Parliament to be recalled, with some legislators expressing concerns about the potential risks to the electoral process if certain legal requirements are not met.

Discrepancies in Expectations: EC’s Position vs. Legislators’ Concerns

The EC’s stance is at odds with earlier statements by influential political figures, such as former Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, who cautioned that the upcoming 2024 elections could face serious threats if Parliament does not reconvene promptly.

According to Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the parliamentary recess could jeopardize the timeline for the passage of any necessary CI, especially since a 21-day period is required for a CI to mature after it is laid before Parliament. This would be crucial to ensuring a legal and orderly election process.

In a pre-recorded interview set to air on JoyNews‘ PM Express, Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu stressed that even though the CI’s status remained uncertain, there is an urgency to ensure that parliamentary processes accommodate the potential need for it. He explained, “I am told that even the instrument, I don’t know whether it’s been laid. If it’s not been laid, we are in the corner of the election. If it’s been laid and by practice, Parliament may not go beyond November 7, what are we doing?”

He further argued that recalling Parliament could be beneficial, even if it is not to conduct routine business, but simply to ensure that any pending CI matures within the required time frame. This could involve adjusting parliamentary procedures to accommodate weekend sittings or extending sessions beyond the usual schedule to expedite the maturation process for the CI.

Expectations for Constitutional Instruments and Adjustments to Parliamentary Sessions

Amid the ongoing discussions about the need for Parliament to reconvene, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has also spoken out, signaling that some critical Constitutional Instruments may indeed be brought before the House. He indicated that adjustments to the traditional parliamentary schedule, such as weekend and Monday sittings, might be necessary to ensure the 21-day period for any new CI to mature is met.

Specifically, Afenyo-Markin mentioned that the Judiciary is expected to introduce a CI aimed at regulating election petitions. This would be a significant legal framework to support the electoral process, and the Chief Justice has reportedly signaled readiness to bring this CI before Parliament. Additionally, he noted that the EC had previously indicated the possibility of submitting a CI related to the elections, which could also require prompt attention from lawmakers to ensure it is finalized well before the electoral period.

Broader Implications for Ghana’s 2024 Elections and Parliamentary Dynamics

The discussion about the potential recall of Parliament and the need for new CIs comes in a politically charged environment, as Ghana prepares for the 2024 elections. The legal framework surrounding elections, including provisions for regulating petitions and other electoral processes, plays a crucial role in ensuring a transparent and fair democratic exercise. The timely maturation of any necessary CI is essential to avoid legal and procedural complications that could undermine the integrity of the election.

The indefinite adjournment of Parliament has thus raised alarms among some stakeholders who see the need for swift legislative action to secure the legal framework for the elections. However, the EC’s recent clarification that it does not plan to introduce a new CI before the elections could temper some of these concerns, though it also raises questions about what legislative measures, if any, are being prioritized to support the upcoming electoral process.

Also read: NPP Caucus Requests Emergency Recall of Parliament to Address Urgent Government Business

Conclusion: Electoral Commission Dismisses Plans for New CI

Electoral Commission Dismisses Plans for New CI: As Ghana approaches a critical electoral period, the interplay between the Electoral Commission, Parliament, and the Judiciary is coming under scrutiny. The decision by the EC not to submit a new CI before the 2024 elections suggests that any required legal adjustments may already be in place, or that existing frameworks will be utilized for the upcoming polls. However, calls for a parliamentary recall indicate that some legislators believe more needs to be done to ensure legal readiness.

If Parliament is recalled, it will not only address any pending legislative requirements but also signal a proactive approach to resolving any potential legal bottlenecks. This would be particularly relevant for stakeholders interested in maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s electoral process and upholding democratic norms. Moving forward, the need for clear communication and timely legal actions will be vital in ensuring a smooth electoral journey leading up to 2024.

Electoral Commission Dismisses Plans for New CI