Oforikrom NDC elections delayed over shortage of ballot papers

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) constituency elections in Oforikrom, Ashanti Region, faced significant disruption as a shortage of ballot papers for key positions forced a partial halt to the process. Voting for the Deputy Secretary and Zongo Caucus positions could not proceed because the necessary materials had not been printed, leaving hundreds of delegates and candidates stranded at the Oforikrom Police Station. While voting for the Women’s and Youth Organiser roles had been successfully completed, the absence of ballots for other portfolios created a logjam that threatened the timeline of the local internal polls.

The delay sparked sharp criticism from several aspirants, most notably Isaac Kumah Asare, who is contesting the Constituency Treasurer position. Asare publicly challenged Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene for allowing the electoral process to continue piecemeal despite the missing materials. He argued that proceeding without all ballots was unfair to candidates in the affected categories and undermined the transparency of the exercise. Asare and other candidates had reportedly petitioned to suspend the elections until all materials were available, but he claimed these grievances were ignored by regional leadership.

Jackson Prah Darren, an aspiring constituency chairman, also highlighted the logistical challenges and the physical toll on party members. He pointed out that many delegates had been waiting for hours without adequate seating or facilities at the police station, raising concerns about delegate fatigue and potential security risks as frustrations mounted. The prolonged waiting times prompted fears that the delay could disenfranchise some voters who might leave the venue before the missing ballots arrived.

Regional party officials eventually arrived at the scene to mediate and address the printing delays. While the officials worked to resolve the shortage and restore order to the process, the incident has highlighted internal friction within the Oforikrom NDC branch regarding electoral management. Candidates like Asare have vowed to continue demanding accountability to ensure that future party processes are conducted with greater transparency and organizational efficiency.