The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has disqualified Philip Appiah Kubi, the replacement flagbearer for the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), due to errors and alleged irregularities discovered in his nomination documents.

EC Chair Jean Mensa made this announcement during a press conference on Tuesday, 12 November, emphasising that the disqualification followed a careful review of the party’s submission.

Jean Mensa noted that although the EC provided the GFP with an opportunity to rectify the issues, certain irregularities could not be ignored.

Despite the GFP’s efforts to address some of the discrepancies, Madam Mensa explained that elements of Mr Kubi’s documentation were found to be “illegitimate” under the nation’s electoral laws, leading to his disqualification from the upcoming election.

This development has added further complications for the GFP, which had already faced a significant setback with the sudden passing of its founding leader and initial flagbearer, Akua Donkor, on 15 October.

Her death left the party in need of a new candidate, and in response, the EC granted the GFP a 10-day extension to nominate a replacement, culminating in Mr Kubi’s selection.

Upon reviewing Mr Kubi’s submission, however, the EC identified several issues that extended beyond mere clerical errors.

Jean Mensa clarified that the EC is bound by its duty to ensure electoral integrity, and therefore could not accept documents with substantial legal issues, regardless of the GFP’s efforts to amend them.

The EC Chair reiterated the Commission’s commitment to a transparent and lawful electoral process, underscoring that adherence to these principles is crucial to maintaining public trust.

Myjoyonline