Tensions rise as NDC supporters besiege EC Regional Office amid Ablekuma North Election results delay

Supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) clashed with authorities today, breaching the Accra Regional Office of the Electoral Commission (EC) amid growing frustration over the delayed declaration of the Ablekuma North parliamentary race results.

Visual footage from the scene shows NDC supporters entering the EC building, where they caused damage to some louvre blades and property. The protest, which has escalated tensions, follows the refusal of police to allow the demonstrators onto the EC premises. 

In addition to the disruption at the EC office, the protesters earlier blocked roads in the area, leading to temporary traffic disruptions. The police quickly intervened, forcing the protesters to clear the roads.

The unrest stems from the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the Ablekuma North race, one of the most fiercely contested constituencies in the 2024 elections. Both the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have laid claim to victory, fuelling the stand-off.

The election was a showdown between Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie of the NPP and Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC.

The Electoral Commission has cited the loss of several pink sheets during the collation process as the reason for the delay. Currently, 219 pink sheets have been consolidated, but 61 remain outstanding. In the absence of these documents, the EC has been relying on data provided by both parties to finalise the tally.

Some leaders in the party including the Member of Parliament of Ningo Prampram, Samuel Nartey George, said the supporters have agreed to move out of the facility.