Ballot boxes & papers in disputed Ablekuma North Parliamentary election destroyed in fire

A fire outbreak at the Kwashieman Cluster of Schools in Accra has destroyed ballot boxes and ballot papers belonging to the Electoral Commission (EC) for the Ablekuma North Constituency. 

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, December 17, 2024, has sparked concerns amidst ongoing political tensions following the December 7 general elections.  

According to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the fire was finally extinguished at 3:35 am without any civilian or firefighter casualties. 

In a statement released on their official Facebook page (below), the GNFS outlined the extent of the damage, noting that the ground floor of the building, which served as a library housing EC ballot boxes, printers, and ballot papers, was "totally burnt".  

The statement further revealed, “The first and second floors used as computer lab and its roofing [were] partially burnt. Salvaged - fifteen (15) computers and adjoining school block were salvaged. Cause of fire is under investigation.”  

The incident comes at a time of heightened political tensions in the Ablekuma North Constituency. The parliamentary race has been one of the most contentious in the country following disagreements between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) over the winner of the seat.  

The Electoral Commission initially declared the NDC candidate, Ewurabena Aubynn, as the winner but later reversed the decision, describing the declaration as illegal. The EC subsequently ordered a re-collation of results, a move the NDC has strongly opposed, calling it illegal.  

Both the NPP candidate, Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, and the NDC’s Ewurabena Aubynn have claimed victory, further intensifying tensions in the constituency.  

In response to the fire, the Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with the GNFS, has launched an investigation into the incident. The Police assured the public that those responsible for the fire would be brought to justice, stating, “We remain committed to upholding peace and ensuring that anyone involved in unlawful acts faces the due process of the law.”  

The Police further urged residents to remain calm as investigations continue.  

Meanwhile, the incident occurs against a backdrop of post-election disturbances across the country. According to a police update, 132 suspects have so far been arrested in connection with election-related unrest. Out of this number, 45 suspects have been remanded into custody, 71 are on police enquiry bail, and 16 are on court bail.  

Authorities have reiterated their resolve to maintain peace and stability, emphasizing that all offenders will face justice.  

The destruction of the electoral materials at the Kwashieman Cluster of Schools has raised serious concerns among stakeholders, particularly as investigations continue amidst an already tense political atmosphere. 

The outcome of the investigation will be closely watched as both parties remain at odds over the results of the constituency election.