The People’s National Convention (PNC) has expressed strong discontent with the Electoral Commission’s (EC) decision to disqualify their presidential candidate, Bernard Amba Tayla Mornah.
The PNC, at a press conference held on 20th September 2024, responded to the EC’s press release, stating that they disagree with the rationale behind the disqualification and plan to take legal action to challenge the decision.
According to the Electoral Commission, Mornah’s nomination was disqualified due to “several errors and omissions” identified during a technical and IT review of the party’s submitted nomination forms. The Commission claims that the PNC was given an opportunity to rectify the issues, despite this, the nomination did not meet the required standards.
PNC’s Position
The PNC disputes these claims, arguing that they fully complied with the EC’s request to correct the nomination forms. According to the party, on 13th September 2024, the Electoral Commission formally requested that certain corrections be made to the nomination forms, and the PNC promptly responded.
The party clarified that they received the letter from the EC on 14th September, the same day corrections were submitted, and since then, there had been no further communication from the Commission until the public announcement of the disqualification.
“We firmly believe that we have complied with all the Electoral Commission’s procedures, and we will challenge this unjust decision in court to ensure that justice prevails,” said a PNC spokesperson during the press conference.
Legal Action
The PNC’s legal team has already initiated steps to address the issue through the appropriate legal channels. They have formally written to the EC, challenging the disqualification and demanding reinstatement of Bernard Mornah as the party’s presidential candidate. The party expressed confidence in their legal position, stating that they have adhered to all the procedural requirements and expect the courts to rule in their favoUr.
In the meantime, the PNC is urging its supporters to remain calm and patient as the legal battle unfolds. The party has reassured its members that they are taking all necessary steps to ensure Bernard Mornah remains in the presidential race.
“Our members should remain calm and trust in the process. We are confident that Mr. Bernard Mornah will be reinstated as the rightful candidate for the PNC in the 2024 elections,” added a representative from the PNC legal team.
Impact on the 2024 Elections
The disqualification of Bernard Mornah from the 2024 elections, if upheld, could significantly affect the political landscape. The PNC has historically been one of Ghana’s smaller but influential political parties, often playing a pivotal role in the country’s electoral dynamics.
Mornah’s removal from the race could potentially reshape the strategies of both major parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who are competing for the presidency.
The PNC remains optimistic about their candidate’s reinstatement, with party leaders expressing confidence that the court will overturn the Electoral Commission’s decision.
Looking Forward
As the PNC prepares for the legal battle ahead, the party has called on its members and the public to stay united and continue to support their campaign efforts. Bernard Mornah, who has led the PNC’s campaign with a focus on social justice, youth empowerment, and economic development, remains a critical figure for the party.
The PNC has vowed to ensure that their candidate participates in the December 7 election, reinforcing their commitment to Ghana’s democratic process. As the situation evolves, all eyes will be on the legal proceedings, with the outcome likely to have far-reaching implications for the upcoming election.
