Abuakwa North bye-election: EC dismisses reports of April 5 date

The Electoral Commission has dismissed reports that it has set April 5 for the Abuakwa North bye-election following the death of the Member of Parliament, Joseph Boakye Danquah-Adu.

The Director of Public Affairs at the Commission, Christian Owusu Parry, told myjoyonline.com it has not taken any decision on the Abuakwa North bye-election.

He described the reports as fabricated and baseless.

He intimated that any date agreed by the EC would be communicated through its usual channels – a press statement. It would also be on the Commission’s website.

The Abuakwa North seat became vacant after the killing of the MP on February 9, 2016. JB as he was popularly called, was allegedly stabbed to death by 19-year old Daniel Asiedu at dawn in his Shiashie residence.

Police say Daniel Asiedu has confessed to committing the crime and has been charged with murder.

The take of the 1992 Constitution:

Per the 1992 Constitution, Parliament is expected to notify the EC in writing within seven days after a constituency becomes vacant.

The Commission is then required to hold a bye-election within thirty days after Parliament notifies it, and a vacancy duly declared.