The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially announced the timeline for the re-run of its parliamentary primary in the Walewale constituency, following a recent ruling by the Tamale High Court. This decision comes after a tumultuous primary election held in January 2024, which was marred by allegations of electoral misconduct and irregularities.
Key Details of the Re-Run
- Nominations for candidates will open on September 3, 2024, and close on September 5, 2024.
- The re-run election is scheduled for September 8, 2024.
- Aspiring candidates must pay a non-refundable application fee of GHC 3,000. Additionally, a filing fee of GHC 35,000 is required, although women, youth, and persons with disabilities will benefit from a 50% discount on the filing fee, reducing it to GHC 17,500.
- The NPP has established an Elections Committee to oversee the re-run, chaired by Alhaji Haruna Mohammed, with Alhaji Nurudeen Fuseini as vice-chair and Evans Nimako serving as the secretary. Other members include constituency executives and the chairperson of the constituency council of elders.
Background of the Dispute
The previous primary was held on January 27, 2024, where Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama narrowly defeated the incumbent MP, Hajia Lariba Zuweira Abudu, by just seven votes. Following the election, Abudu challenged the results in court, alleging significant irregularities. The Tamale High Court ultimately ruled that the results were null and void, necessitating a re-run of the election.
Justice Richard Kogyapwah, presiding over the case, has scheduled the full judgment to be delivered on September 12, 2024. During this period, the NPP is under pressure to resolve the internal disputes, especially given that the general elections are just around the corner on December 7, 2024.
Reactions to the Court’s Ruling
Samson Lardy Anyenini, legal counsel for the first defendant, expressed disappointment with the court’s decision, indicating the complexities involved in the electoral process in the Walewale constituency, which is also the home base of the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
As the NPP prepares for the re-run, party members and supporters are hopeful that this new election will restore unity and strengthen their chances in the upcoming general elections. The focus now shifts to the candidates who will emerge during the nomination period and how they will appeal to the constituency’s electorate.
