EC cautions NPP delegates towards dressed in applicants’ paraphernalia on number one day – Life Pulse Daily
Editor-in-chiefJanuary 30, 20263 Mins read54
EC Warns NPP Delegates Against Wearing Candidate Apparel on Primary Day
Introduction
As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) prepares for its crucial presidential primaries, the Electoral Commission (EC) has issued a clear directive to delegates and supporters regarding campaign attire. This guidance aims to ensure a fair and transparent voting process during the party’s internal elections scheduled for Saturday, January 31. Understanding these regulations is essential for all participants to avoid potential violations that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
Key Points
- The EC has explicitly prohibited delegates from wearing clothing or accessories bearing any presidential candidate's branding on voting day
- The restriction applies to all forms of candidate paraphernalia including T-shirts, caps, trousers, and other campaign materials
- Delegates may wear NPP party colors but must avoid any items specifically associated with the five presidential aspirants
- Violations constitute offenses under electoral by-laws and guidelines
- The primaries will involve 211,849 delegates casting ballots at 333 polling centers nationwide
Background
The New Patriotic Party is conducting its presidential primaries to select a flagbearer for the upcoming 2028 general elections. This internal party election has attracted significant attention as five prominent figures compete for the party’s nomination. The candidates include former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, former Minister for Education Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, former Minister for Food and Agriculture Dr. Bryan Acheampong, and former General Secretary Kwabena Agyepong.
The Electoral Commission, as the independent body responsible for overseeing elections in Ghana, has a mandate to ensure that all electoral processes, including internal party primaries, adhere to established guidelines and maintain the highest standards of fairness and transparency.
Analysis
The EC’s warning reflects the commission’s commitment to maintaining electoral integrity, even in the context of internal party elections. By prohibiting the wearing of candidate-specific apparel on voting day, the commission aims to prevent any form of intimidation or undue influence that could affect voters’ free choice.
This regulation is particularly important in the Ghanaian political context, where party loyalty and candidate support often manifest visibly through clothing and accessories. The restriction ensures that polling stations remain neutral spaces where delegates can make their choices without external pressure or the perception of bias.
The distinction made by the EC between wearing general NPP colors and candidate-specific paraphernalia is significant. It allows delegates to express their party affiliation while preventing the polling environment from becoming a showcase for individual candidates’ campaigns.
Practical Advice
For delegates and supporters participating in the NPP primaries, here are some practical guidelines to follow:
1. **Review Your Wardrobe**: Before heading to the polling station, carefully examine all clothing and accessories to ensure none bear the logo, name, or image of any presidential candidate.
2. **Stick to Neutral NPP Colors**: If you wish to show party support, opt for plain NPP colors (red, blue, and white) without any candidate-specific branding.
3. **Avoid Campaign Materials**: Leave behind any campaign flyers, posters, or other materials that promote specific candidates at home.
4. **Respect the Silence Period**: Remember that active campaigning is prohibited on the eve and day of elections. While house-to-house interactions are still permitted, large gatherings and rallies are not allowed.
5. **Focus on Your Voting Rights**: The primary purpose of your visit to the polling station is to cast your vote. Keep the focus on exercising your democratic right rather than promoting any particular candidate.
FAQ
What happens if I accidentally wear candidate-branded clothing to the polling station?
If you arrive wearing prohibited items, polling officials may ask you to remove or cover them before allowing you to vote. It’s best to avoid this situation entirely by checking your attire beforehand.
Can I wear clothing that simply says “NPP” without mentioning any candidate?
Yes, general party branding without specific candidate references is typically permitted. The restriction focuses on items that promote individual candidates.
Are there any exceptions for campaign workers or party officials?
No exceptions are mentioned in the EC’s directive. All delegates and attendees must comply with the same regulations regardless of their role or status within the party.
What time do the polls open and close?
Voting is scheduled to begin at 7:00 a.m. and conclude at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 31.
How many delegates are expected to participate?
Approximately 211,849 delegates are expected to cast their ballots at 333 polling centers across Ghana’s 276 constituencies.
Conclusion
The Electoral Commission’s warning to NPP delegates about wearing candidate paraphernalia on primary day underscores the importance of maintaining electoral integrity in all voting processes. By adhering to these guidelines, delegates can ensure that the presidential primaries reflect the true will of the party membership without external influences or perceptions of bias.
As Ghana continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, such measures play a crucial role in building public confidence in the electoral system. The NPP’s internal elections serve as an important test case for the application of electoral regulations in party primaries, setting precedents for future internal party contests and national elections.
All participants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these regulations and approach the voting process with the seriousness and respect it deserves. By doing so, they contribute to a fair, transparent, and credible selection of the NPP’s flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.
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