The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially released the nomination procedures and financial requirements for candidates seeking to contest the upcoming Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election.
In a public notice signed by the EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa, the Commission outlined a detailed set of criteria that all prospective candidates must meet to have their nomination accepted.
A key highlight of the announcement is the differential filing fee structure, a measure designed to promote inclusivity in the political process. The standard filing fee for the election has been set at Ten Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHC 10,000.00).
However, in a significant move to encourage greater participation, the Commission has set a reduced fee of Seven Thousand, Five Hundred Ghana Cedis (GHC 7,500.00) for both Female Candidates and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Beyond the financial requirements, the EC has specified strict procedural rules for the nomination forms. Each candidate’s form must be formally proposed and seconded by two registered voters within the Tamale Central constituency. Furthermore, the nomination must receive the assent of an additional eighteen (18) registered voters from the constituency, bringing the total number of supporting constituents to twenty.
Prospective Members of Parliament are also required to provide a specific type of photograph. Candidates must submit two copies of a recent, bust-sized, postcard photograph taken against a red background. The image must clearly show the candidate’s full face and ears.
All completed Nomination Forms must be submitted in quadruplicate (four copies) to the Constituency Returning Officer, along with the required photographs and the appropriate filing fee.
The Tamale Central seat became vacant following the passing of the incumbent MP, necessitating this by-election. The EC’s guidelines are intended to ensure a smooth, transparent, and orderly nomination process for all parties involved.
The public and especially aspiring candidates are urged to be guided by these directives to ensure their submissions are accepted without issue.
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