The Electoral Commission (EC) has presented final certificate to two political parties to enable them participate in the 2020 general elections.
They are the Ghana Union Movement (GUM), founded by the Head Pastor and General Overseer of the Life Assembly Worship Centre, Reverend Christian Kwabena Andrew and Power Unity Party (PUP), founded by Head Pastor of True Way International Chapel, Prophet Eliyehu Boating.
Presenting the certificate yesterday at the Commission headquarters in Accra, chairperson of the EC, Mrs Jean Mensa said, the two religious parties had fulfilled the requirements of the commission to contest the 2020 elections.
“We are today presenting you with the final certificate of registration in partial fulfilment of Section 8 sub section (2) of the Political Parties Act, Act 574 to confirm that you have satisfied the requirements,” she said.
Mrs Mensa said the internal organisations of the political parties conform to democratic principles and that their action and purpose were not inconsistent with the 1992 Constitution.
She said name, colours, emblem and motto had no ethnic, gender, regional or religious connotations neither did they give the appearance that their activities were confined to certain part of the country only.
“It is important to note that the two parties shall within 90 days after the issuance of the final certificate, submit to the EC, a written declaration given details of all their assets and expenditures, including contributions and donation in cash or kind.
Additionally, they will be required to submit to the Commission, the names, titles and addresses of their officers at the national, regional, district and constituency level and at such other level of organisation as the EC may direct,” Mrs Mensa said.
She emphasised that, should the party refuse or neglect to comply with provisions or should they submit a declaration which is false, their certificate would be cancelled.
“Please note that you are required to submit the names and address of your auditor within 90 days of the receipt of your certificate. Refusal to comply with these provisions will lead to the withdrawal of certificate,” she said.
Founder of GUM, Rev. Christian Kwabena Andrew thanked the Commission for granting the party their final certificate and pledged to comply with the necessary requirements.
BY BERNARD BENGHAN
