Dear Honorable Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dominic Akuritinga Ayine,
I write to formally petition your esteemed office to investigate and take immediate action regarding the reported electoral irregularities involving Richard Ahiagbah during the 2020 general elections. This matter raises serious concerns about the integrity of Ghana’s electoral process and the rule of law, and as such, warrants urgent scrutiny and prosecution where necessary.
According to reports, Mr. Ahiagbah exercised his franchise despite his name not appearing on the voter register. He allegedly presented his voter identification card, and election officials manually recorded his details at the bottom of the register, permitting him to cast his vote. If confirmed, this act constitutes a direct violation of Ghana’s electoral laws, particularly the Representation of the People Law, 1992 (PNDCL 284), which criminalizes unauthorized voting, impersonation, and other electoral malpractices.
Legal and Electoral Infractions
The alleged violation of electoral laws directly contravenes key legislative provisions, including:
Representation of the People Law, 1992 (PNDCL 284): This statute strictly prohibits any act of unauthorized voting and impersonation, carrying significant legal penalties for offenders. Public Elections Regulations, 1996 (CI 15): These regulations outline the electoral procedures and safeguards against fraudulent voting practices. 1992 Constitution of Ghana: Article 42 guarantees every Ghanaian citizen the right to vote, but this right must be exercised lawfully. Article 45 mandates the Electoral Commission to ensure free and fair elections. Any compromise on these provisions undermines democracy and must be addressed decisively.
Urgent Call to Action
The growing impunity and abuse of power within our democratic institutions threaten to erode public trust in governance and the sanctity of our electoral process. The law is no respecter of persons, and no individual, irrespective of status or political affiliation, should operate above the law. Failure to act decisively in this matter will embolden others to flout the law with impunity, setting a dangerous precedent for future elections.
In light of these concerns, I respectfully urge your office to:
1. Conduct a thorough investigation into this electoral infraction to establish the facts and culpability.
2. Prosecute all individuals found to have violated the law, including any collaborators or enablers.
3. Strengthen electoral procedures to prevent similar occurrences in future elections.
This petition is a call for justice and accountability. Upholding the rule of law in this matter will reaffirm the government’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and the democratic principles upon which Ghana is founded. I trust in your leadership and commitment to ensuring that all citizens are held to the same legal standards without fear or favor.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your swift action.
Sincerely,
Atitso C. Akpalu
Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua
[email protected]
