Kumasi High court dismisses NDC’s case against three NPP MPs Over procedural lapse – Details
The Kumasi High Court has officially dismissed a legal challenge filed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) against three sitting New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament, from Ahafo Ano South West, Ahafo Ano North, and Obuasi East constituencies. The court ruled that the NDC’s case was procedurally flawed and failed to meet the legal requirements for filing electoral petitions.
In delivering the judgment, the presiding judge made it clear that the NDC did not file the case within the 21-day timeframe stipulated by Ghana’s electoral laws for challenging parliamentary election results. According to the law, any person or party seeking to contest the validity of a parliamentary election result must do so within three weeks after the official declaration, a provision aimed at ensuring timely resolution of election-related disputes.
“The petitioners failed to comply with the statutory time limit, which is fundamental to the validity of the proceedings,” the judge said in court. “As such, the case is dismissed on procedural grounds.”
The NDC had sought to challenge the eligibility and electoral victories of the three NPP MPs, alleging irregularities in the 2024 general elections in those constituencies. However, the court did not entertain the substantive claims due to the procedural lapse, emphasizing that timeliness is a legal prerequisite that cannot be overlooked.
Legal analysts have noted that the ruling underscores the importance of strict adherence to electoral laws, particularly concerning timelines for court actions. It also serves as a reminder that legal technicalities can override even potentially valid claims if not properly executed within the framework of the law.
The dismissed case is seen as a significant legal win for the affected NPP MPs, who will now continue their parliamentary duties without the cloud of pending litigation.
Neither the NDC nor its legal representatives have publicly indicated whether they will appeal the ruling or pursue any further legal action.
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