Honorable Theresa Awuni Lardi, Member of Parliament for Okaikwei North, has raised concerns about the Electoral Commission’s (EC) decision to change the constituency’s collation center from its usual location ahead of the upcoming general elections. Despite this, the MP has expressed her confidence in her party’s readiness for the polls.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the special voting exercise, the MP expressed dissatisfaction with the EC’s handling of the situation, stating, “The EC did not treat the Okaikwei North NDC well for changing the collation center from its usual place. They should have given us ample notice to prepare and accept the situation, but that didn’t happen. Regardless, we have made our stance clear and expressed what we believe should have been done. We leave the rest to God while ensuring that the correct results are collated and announced.”
Despite her grievances, Hon. Awuni emphasized that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is fully prepared for the elections. She praised the smooth conduct of the special voting exercise, which she believes reflects the electorate’s preparedness.
“So far, so good. Everything is in place. When we talk about special voters, they are the literate individuals who know what they are about. As far as I’m concerned, everything is okay,” she stated. “The polling agents haven’t reported any issues, so we are on course. Okaikwei North is fully prepared and poised for the elections.”
The MP expressed optimism about the NDC’s prospects in the elections, predicting victory for the party’s presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, and her re-election in the constituency. “We have done all the necessary work, spoken to our people, and they understand how challenging the situation in the country has become. Today, the campaign speaks for itself. Ghanaians are wide awake, and I am confident that on December 8th, Mahama will be elected President of Ghana, and my people will retain me in office.”
Reflecting on her relationship with her constituents, Hon. Awuni exuded confidence, stating, “When you look at the atmosphere here, and considering my human relations, do you think people will walk past my name on the ballot sheet? That’s simply not possible.”
While reiterating her disappointment with the EC, the MP called for fairness and transparency in the electoral process. “Upon arriving here, I spoke to the commander, but they seem adamant and are still insisting on using this place. I feel they are not being fair to us. That said, if something isn’t going as it should, we must speak up. We have drawn the world’s attention to what is happening here in Okaikwei North. It’s now up to the Electoral Commission to do the right thing.”
Ending on a resolute note, she added, “No matter what happens, we are prepared.”
As the elections draw closer, the concerns raised by Hon. Awuni highlight the critical importance of maintaining trust and fairness in Ghana’s electoral processes.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Emmanuel Mensah
