H.E John Mahama’s decision to file his nomination papers on Monday has raised eyebrows among political observers. While the move is seen as a significant step towards his bid for the presidency, it also begs the question: is the National Democratic Congress (NDC) now satisfied with the Electoral Commission’s (EC) handling of the voter register and other contentious issues?
As it stands, the NDC and other political parties have expressed concerns about the voter register, citing issues of credibility and accuracy. The party has also been engaged in a public spat with the EC over the commission’s refusal to grant them access to the register for verification purposes. Furthermore, the NDC has been critical of the EC’s seeming lack of transparency and accountability in its preparations for the upcoming elections.
In light of these unresolved issues, Mahama’s decision to file his nomination papers seems premature. By doing so, is the NDC not implicitly endorsing the EC’s actions and signaling that they are now satisfied with the commission’s handling of the electoral process? This would be a surprising turn of events, given the party’s previous vocal criticisms of the EC.
Moreover, the NDC’s concerns about the voter register are not the only outstanding issue. The party has also been at odds with the National Peace Council over the council’s perceived bias in favor of the ruling party. With these issues still unresolved, it is puzzling that Mahama would choose to file his nomination papers at this juncture.
One possible explanation that comes to mind is that the NDC is seeking to demonstrate its commitment to the electoral process, despite its reservations about the EC’s handling of it. However, this move may also be seen as a strategic blunder, as it could be perceived as a sign of weakness or a lack of resolve in the party’s demands for electoral reform.
As the electoral landscape continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the NDC’s decision to file Mahama’s nomination papers will be closely watched by political observers and analysts. Only time will tell if this move proves to be a shrewd strategic decision or a miscalculation. A Stronger NDC is a Better Ghana.
Lawrence Roland Arthur
Accra-Ghana
