The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially wrapped up the filing process for presidential aspirants, which took place from September 9 to September 13.
Out of 33 candidates, only 22 successfully completed their submissions, with the final day of filing marked by unexpected tension.
On the first day, September 9, eight candidates filed their nominations. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was the first to submit his forms, calling on the EC to ensure a credible election process.
John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) also submitted his forms on the same day, though they were submitted by party Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia due to Mahama’s ongoing campaign tour. Nketia used the opportunity to raise concerns about the integrity of the voters’ register.
Other early submissions included Kofi Akpaloo of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), Hasan Ayariga of the All People’s Congress (APC), and independent candidate Nana Kwame Bediako, who had not yet selected a running mate.
On September 11, independent candidate Alan Kyerematen submitted his papers, expressing confidence that Ghana’s youth are ready to lead the country. That day also saw nominations from Alhaji Mohammed Frimpong of the National Democratic Party (NDP) and independent candidate Kofi Koranteng, who emphasized the need for strong leadership.
On September 12, independent candidate Janet Nabla completed her submission, criticizing the complexity of the nomination process and advocating for greater digitalization.
Akua Donkor of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) and Nana Frimpongmaa Sarpong Kumankumaa of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) also filed their nominations that day.
The final day, September 13, was marked by a flurry of activity and last-minute drama. Bernard Mornah of the People’s National Convention (PNC) was the first to file on Friday, despite a legal dispute within his party involving former flagbearer David Apasara.
Other candidates, including Dr. Daniel Augustus Lartey Jnr. of the Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP), and independent candidates Nana Stephens, Desmond Abrefa, Dr. Elder Paul Perko, James Kwesi Oppong, Dr. John Kpikpi, and Dr. Sam Ankrah, also submitted their papers before the deadline.
Tension arose when the Progressive People’s Party and independent candidate Dr. Amu Darko attempted to file their nominations after the EC had officially closed the process. Their late submissions were ultimately rejected.
By the end of the filing period, 22 out of 33 candidates had successfully submitted their nominations, concluding a process marked by ambition, controversy, and a race against the clock.
