The Electoral Commission says it has not registered any political party contrary to reports that former PNC flagbearer had broken away to form a new party.
The EC maintained in a press statement, that until a final registration certificate is given no individual can claim to form a political party.
The statement follows widely circulated media reports that Hassan Ayariga has been granted a license to operate his All Peoples’ Congress (APC).
Hassan Ayariga was defeated in the presidential primary of the People’s National Convention (PNC) but decided to break away shortly after that.
Hassan Ayariga polled 426 votes as against Dr Edward Mahama’s 492 votes in the 2015 presidential primary at Upper West regional capital,Wa.
Shortly after that contest which was marred by pockets of violence, Hassan Ayariga said: “I am also out of the PNC,” and refused to congratulate the winner.
Few months later he was deemed to have formed a new political party, the APC with posters flying around but the EC says it has not yet certified any new political party, at least not yet.
Full statement
The Electoral Commission wishes to inform the general public that, contrary to reports in the media, the Commission has not registered any political parties this year.
The Commission further wishes to clarify that persons who apply for registration of political parties have several requirements which must be met under the Political Parties Act 2000 (Act 574).
Until these requirements have been met and a party has been issued with a final registration certificate, the party seeking registration cannot conduct its activities as a political party.
The Commission is accordingly advising and reminding applicants that it is against the provisions of Act 574 to canvass for votes until the party has been issued with a final registration certificate.
Source-myjoyonline.com
