Political analyst Ayam Fidelis Atura has criticized the Electoral Commission (EC) for its handling of the candidate selection process, suggesting that it was unfair for some candidates to choose their positions before others.
He argued that all candidates should have been given equal opportunities to select their spots simultaneously. “I think that the EC attempted to use processes they employed in the past for the balloting process. It is important to give all parties equal chances so that no one picks before the other.”
He maintained that a fair process is crucial for maintaining trust in the electoral system and avoiding potential chaos if public confidence wanes.
“The Electoral Commission, in my opinion, is the only body left that political parties or stakeholders can rely on in this election. If they don’t conduct themselves in a way that convinces people their actions are in order, then they risk causing people to refuse the election, which would lead to chaos.”
Atura highlighted that the order of political parties can impact voter behavior, noting that many individuals tend to favor the first or last candidates for ease of selection. However, he emphasized that this ordering does not necessarily determine electoral outcomes.
Additionally, Mr. Atura acknowledged the role of smaller political parties in the electoral landscape, arguing that they should not be dismissed despite their limited chances of winning. He expressed skepticism about the true independence of some smaller parties, suggesting they may be backed by larger, established parties. “I think these ‘so-called’ smaller parties are sometimes sponsored by bigger political parties to gain entry into the race.”
According to him, voter loyalty to the two dominant parties, the NDC and NPP, is more about historical alignment than policy appeal. “The ideas of political parties over the years are not what wins them elections; it is the alignment of people toward these parties. As we speak now, the reason people are gravitating toward the NDC and NPP is not because of their policies but because of historical loyalties.”
He urged smaller parties to unite under a common platform, arguing that collaboration could enhance their visibility and impact in the elections. “They know they don’t have a chance to win, but if they come together as one group and build a collective campaign, they could become more visible.”
He pointed out that selfishness among party leaders is a significant barrier to this unity.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com|101.1 MHZ|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
