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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Ghana shall be divided into as many constituencies for the purpose of election of members of Parliament as the Electoral Commission may prescribe, and each constituency shall be represented by one member of Parliament. Constitution, art. 47
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 47
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/19
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
c . The Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Electoral Commission..."where the boundaries of a constituency established under this article are altered as a result of a review, the alteraton shall come into effect upon the next dissolution of Parliament."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 47 (1 & 7)]
Verified: 2005/07/02
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population b . Respecting natural barriers d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries e . Geographic size of district f . Communities of interest/cultural concerns
Comments: No constituency shall fall within more than one region. The boundaries of each constituency shall be such that the number of inhabitants in the constituency is, as nearly as possible, equal to the population quota. The number of inhabitants of a constituency may be greater or less than the population quota in order to take account of means of communication, geographical features, density of population and area and boundaries of the regions and other administrative or traditional areas. Constitution, art. 47
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 47: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/19
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
f . Other
Comments: For the purpoese of Clause (3)of this article.............or traditional areas.
Source: The constitution of the Republic of Ghana article 47 Clause (4)
Verified: 2005/07/02
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
e . Electoral Management Body (EMB)
Comments: The Electoral Commission shall review the division of Ghana into constituencies at intervals of not less than seven years, or within twelve months after the publication of the enumeration figures after the holding of a census of the population of Ghana, whichever is earlier, and many, as a result, alter the constituencies.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 47 (5): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/19
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
j . National census l . Other
Comments: "The Electoral Commission shall review the division of Ghana into constituencies at intervals of not less than seven years, or within twelve months after the publication of the enumeration figures after the holding of a census of the population of Ghana, whichever is earlier, and may, as a result, alter the constituencies."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 47 (5)]
Verified: 2005/07/02
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
a . Head of State is the Head of Government c . Directly elected in general elections (absolute majority with 2nd round if necessary)
Comments: There shall be a President of the Republic of Ghana who shall be the Head of State and Head of Government and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ghana.Constitution, art. 57
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 57, 63.
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/19
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
b . Directly elected in general elections, absolute majority (with 2nd round if necessary)
Comments: The President is the head of State and Head of Government, elected by absolute majority of votes.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 57, 63: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/19
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: There shall be a President of the Republic of Ghana who shall be the Head of State and Head of Government and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ghana.Constitution, art.57
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 57:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/19
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber and is known as the Parliament of Ghana.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 93:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
- Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Ghana: http://www.ipu.org/parline-e/reports/2123_E.htm
Verified: 2016/09/19
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: The candidate who receives the highest valid votes cast shall be declared elected in case of parliamentary elections.
Source: Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)
http://www.ipu.org/parline-e/reports/2123_B.htm
Verified: 2016/09/19
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
k . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments: The country has only one Chamber.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 93 Section 2)
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: Each Member of Parliament is a representative of a Constituency in the country as demarcated by the Electoral Commisssion.
Source: The Constitution of the Republi of Ghana ( Article 47)
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments: Ghana has only one Chamber
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana ( Article 93 )
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: The basis for the demarcation of constituencies is such that the number of inhabitants are as nearly equal to the population quota.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 47 Section 3 )
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
c . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments: Ghana has only one Chamber
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana( Article 93 )
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Seats are won by popular vote, maintaining that a simple majority will ensure election."
Source:
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Ghana has only one chamber.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana ( Article 93 )
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: see ES12, same as other candidates.
Source: No specific legislation provides alternative information regarding independent candidates.
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Same as ES16
Source: Same as ES16
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: Elections are held every four years.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 113 Section 1 )
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: Same as ES12
Source: Same as ES12
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments: since 1996 voting has been one day.
Source:
Verified: 2005/07/01
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Same as ES12
Source: Same as ES12
Verified: 2005/07/01
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
b . Separate legislation
Comments:
Source: The Public Elections Regulations, 2016:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-public-elections-regulations-2016/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
b . January 1990- December 1999
Comments: January 1993
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana
Verified: 2005/07/01
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections c . Local elections d . Referendums
Comments:
Source: -Public Elections Regulations (2016):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-public-elections-regulations-2016/view;
- Electoral laws:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-electoral-laws/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments:
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 42: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
LF005
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer:
a . National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: District Assembly elections are held six months apart from parliamentary elections.
Source: The Local Government Act, Act 462 1993
The District Assembly Elections Act, Act 473.
Verified: 2005/07/01
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary
Comments: The validity of the election of the President may be challenged only by a citizen of Ghana who may present a petition for the purpose to the Supreme Court within twenty-one days after the declaration of the result of the election in respect of which the petition is presented.Constitution, art. 64
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 64: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
c . Judiciary e . Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Chief Justice and the Electoral Commission Does appoint people to a tribunal.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 48 Clause (1) )
Verified: 2005/07/01
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates b . Parties c . Voters
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/07/01
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
e . Special Electoral Tribunal
Comments: This tribunal consists of three persons apointed by the Cheif Justice and the Electoral Commission.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana ( Article 48 Clause (1) )
Verified: 2005/07/01
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
a . Election Management Body
Comments:
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana.
Verified: 2005/07/01
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level b . Regional level c . Local level d . Other kinds of elections (church, union, etc.) Please specify.
Comments: The Electoral Commission of Ghana shall conduct and supervise all public elections and referenda. The Electoral Commission also conducts or supervises elections for various bodies in the country, such as the National and the Regional Houses of Chiefs, the election of the executive officers of the Ghana Medical and Dental Association, the Veterans Association of Ghana (VAG), and the Trades Union Congress.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 45:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
a . The President
Comments:
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Verified: 2005/07/02
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: The administrative expenses of the Electoral Commission including salaries, allowances and pensions payable to, or in respect of persons serving with the Commission, shall be charged on the Consolidated Fund.Constitution, art.54
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 54:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
e . Another organ within the national government
Comments: The Commission shall keep proper books of account and proper records in relation to them and the account books and records of the Commission shall be in a form approved by the Auditor-General. The books and accounts of the Commission shall be audited annually by the Auditor-General or by an auditor appointed by him. (The Electoral Commission Act, art. 11)
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 187: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
The Electoral Commission Act, 1993 (Act 451), art. 11:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-provisions-on-the-establishment-of-the/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
c . For an unspecified period
Comments: The three Chairmen have permanent tenure of office and the same conditions of service as judges of the Superior Courts; i.e. the Chairman has conditions of service of Appeals Court Judges while the two Deputy Chairmen have conditions of service of High Court judges.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 44:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
- The Electoral Commission Act, 1993 (Act 451), art. 5:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-provisions-on-the-establishment-of-the/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
b . Independent
Comments: In the performance of its functions, the Electoral Commission, shall not be subject to the direction or control of any person or authority.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 46:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
- The Electoral Commission Act, 1993 (Act 451), art. 3:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-provisions-on-the-establishment-of-the/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: 7 members: The Electoral Commission shall consist of a Chairman, two Deputy Chairmen and four other members.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 43 (1):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
- The Electoral Commission Act, 1993 (Act 451), art. 1:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-provisions-on-the-establishment-of-the/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: A person is not qualified to be appointed a member of the Electoral Commission unless he is qualified to be elected as a member of Parliament.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 44 (1):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
- The Electoral Commission Act, 1993 (Act 451), art. 5: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-provisions-on-the-establishment-of-the/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State
Comments: The President shall, acting on the advice of the Council of State, appoint the Chairman, Deputy Chairmen and the other members of the Commission.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 43 (2):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
- The Electoral Commission Act, 1993 (Act 451), art. 4 (2): http://ec.gov.gh/assets/file/establishment_of_electoral_commision.pdf (2012);
Verified: 2016/09/21
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Electoral Commission of Ghana.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 45 (d):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
- Official website of the Electoral Commission of Ghana: http://www.ec.gov.gh/about/what-we-do.html
Verified: 2016/09/21
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments: The National Commission for Civic Education organizes on an ongoing basis voter education programme.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 45 (d), 231, 233:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
- Official website of the National Commission for Civic Education: http://nccegh.org/
Verified: 2016/09/21
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body l . Other
Comments: The National Commission for Civic Education organizes on an ongoing basis civic education programme.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 45 (d), 231, 233:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
- Official website of the National Commission for Civic Education: http://nccegh.org/
Verified: 2016/09/21
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement e . Public meetings
Comments:
Source: Public Knowledge
Verified: 2005/07/01
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement e . Public meetings
Comments:
Source: Public Knowledge
Verified: 2005/07/01
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
a . Disabled
Comments: For the First time the blind were given special ballot pares for voting.
Source: Public Kwonledge
Verified: 2005/07/01
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments: Every citizen of Ghana of eighteen years of age or above and of sound mind has the right to vote and is entitled to be registered as a voter for the purposes of public elections and referenda.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 42:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship e . Other
Comments: Every citizen of Ghana of eighteen years of age or above and of sound mind has the right to vote and is entitled to be registered as a voter for the purposes of public elections and referenda.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 42:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
d . Mental disability
Comments: "...and of sound mind has the right to vote..."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 42]
Verified: 2005/07/01
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: The Electoral Commission shall compile the register of voters and revise it periodically.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 45 (a): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments: Registration is opened to polling stations prior to the election and updated before elections to either include persons reaching voting status or to remove indidviduals deceased or whose voting rights have been stripped from them.
Source: Status Report on Preparations for the 1996 Presidential and Legislative Elections by the Electoral Commission of Ghana.
Verified: 2005/07/01
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
d . During the election period
Comments: Every source of information that I have come across leads me to believe that the voter register is updated and focused upon just prior to the presidential and parliamentary elections.
Source: Various
Verified: 2005/07/01
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
e . Appearance by voter at registration office
Comments:
Source: Status Report on Preparations for the 1996 Presidential and Legislative Elections by the Electoral Commission of Ghana
Verified: 2005/07/01
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 42 (a):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify requirement) h . Not applicable
Comments: Registration for parliamentary elections is needed for candidates rather than political parties. The nomination form for each candidate in a parliamentary election shall be witnessed by the signature or mark of 2 registered voters as proposer and seconder and supported by 18 other registered voters in the constituency as assenting tot he nomination. In addition, a candidate for parliamentary elections shall deposit or cause to be deposited an amount of money determined by the Commission and deliver to the returning officer a statutory declaration.
Source: The Public Elections Regulations, 2016, art. 6:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-public-elections-regulations-2016/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: Ghana has no second chamber.
Source: the constitution of the Republic of Ghana.Article 93
Verified: 2005/07/02
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence f . Registration j . Other
Comments:
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 94:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
k . No information available
Comments: Same as PC 02
Source: Same as PC 02
Verified: 2005/07/02
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age
Comments: "A presidential candidate must be at least 40 years of age..."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, Article 62.
Verified: 2006/11/20
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
o . Other
Comments: Must have full voting rights
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana Article 94
Verified: 2005/07/02
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
p . Other
Comments: Must have full voting rights
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana Article 62.
Verified: 2005/07/02
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
e . In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments:
Source: The Public Elections Regulations (2016), art. 6, 7:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-public-elections-regulations-2016/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: Same as PCO1
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Verified: 2005/07/02
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: Same as PC05
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Verified: 2005/07/02
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
c . Indirect
Comments: Only indirect public funding is available in the form of free access to the media.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 55 (11, 12):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: Same as PC13
Source:
Verified: 2005/07/02
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
a . Equal funding, regardless of size and previous performance
Comments:
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 55 (11, 12): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: Same as PC13
Debate on Party Financing is on going.
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/20
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Only a citizen of Ghana may make a contribution or donation to a political party registered in Ghana.
Source: - Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 55 (15): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
- The Political parties Law, 2000 (Act 574), art. 23: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-the-political-parties-law-act-574-of-2000/view
Verified: 2016/09/21
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments: Contribution could be mader any time.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, Article 55.
Verified: 2005/07/02
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of party contributions received b . Public disclosure of party expenditure c . Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources
Comments: " (14) Political parties shall be required by law- (a) to declare to the public their revenues and assets and the sources of those revenues and assests and (b) to publich to the public annually their audited accounts. (15) Only a citizen of Ghana may make a contribution or donation to a political party registered in Ghana."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 55 (14a, b & 15)]
Verified: 2005/07/02
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments: This is included in the party's expenditure.
Source: The constitution of the Republic of Ghana, Article 55 Clause (14) (15)
Verified: 2005/07/02
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
d . Other
Comments: Parliament. " (17) subject to the provisions of this Chapter, Parliament shall by law regulate the establishment and functioning of political parties."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 55 (17)]
Verified: 2005/07/02
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) d . Categorical (only one mark allowed) f . Same ballot papers used nationwide h . Party symbols in color j . Candidate photos in color n . Random listing (lottery)
Comments:
Source: Sample ballot from the 1996 Legislative Elections.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments: Ghana has only one chamber
Source: the Contitution of the Republic of Ghana article 93
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed) d . Categorical (only possible to make one mark) f . Same ballot papers used nation-wide h . Party symbols in color j . Candidate photos in color n . Random listing (lottery)
Comments:
Source: Sample ballot from the 1996 Legislative Elections.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: Immediately after the close of the poll, the presiding officer shall, in the presence of such of the candidates or their representatives and their polling agents as are present, proceed to count, at that polling station, the ballot papers of that station and record the votes cast in favour of each candidate or question. Constitution, art. 49
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, art. 49 (2): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/
The Public Elections Regulations (2016), art. 38:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-public-elections-regulations-2016/
Verified: 2016/10/05
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
a . Separate ballots for different elections b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box c . Tally of voters who voted
Comments:
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
a . Polling centre (several polling stations in same building)
Comments: "...the Presiding Officer of each polling station in the constituency sends his or her results form to the Returning Officer at the constituency center...Thereafter, the Returning Officer publicly announces the results, declares the winner (elected in a parliamentary race), and posts a copy of the results at a conspicuous place at the centre..."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
e . Other
Comments: Constituency level
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana Article 47 Clause (1)
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported b . By telephone c . By fax e . Radio
Comments: "When the District Electoral Officer receives the results from teh Returning Officer, he or she immediately communicates them to the Regional Office of the Commission by telephone, radio, or by driving to the regional capital."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana. page 33.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
a . Ballots f . Certificate of result g . Ballot boxes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
c . Signatures on sealed envelopes
Comments:
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request
Comments: A candidate or a representative of a candidate or a counting
agent may, if present when the counting of the ballots is completed,
request the presiding officer to
(a) recount the ballots; and
(b) again recount the ballots for a second time.
Public Elections Regulations
Source: The Public Elections Regulations (2016), art. 38:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-public-elections-regulations-2016/
Verified: 2016/10/05
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
b . An individual candidate e . International observers
Comments: According to election law, an agent of the candidate may ask for a re-count if he or she is not satisfied with the initial countl.
Source: Elections in Ghana Part I. page 27.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
c . Local Election Management body
Comments: "...where a controversy over the count at a specific polling station could not be resoved there, the Returning Officer is required to (re)count the votes or otherwise resove the controversy at the constituency center in the presecne of the candidates agents"
Source: Elections in Ghana 1996. Part I. page 32.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: This done at the polling station and local media stations do anounce as well.
Source: Public knowledge.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: After a declaration has ben signed by Agents of Parties and candidates, the results are then declared.
Source: The constitution of the Republic of Ghana Article 49 clause (3)
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments: There is no legally mandated date or time after polls close to announce an official winner of an election, though in the 1996 elections, the official results were announced four days after the close of the polls.Due to improved information technology results are announced much faster.
Source: Commonwealth Observer Report page 26.
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME002
Question: Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned b . Government owned c . Privately owned
Comments: See ME03, difficult to answer because there is no specific legislation that defines the answer to this question.
Source:
Verified: 2005/10/14
ME003
Question: Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
a . Publicly owned b . Government owned c . Privately owned
Comments: 'The public must be given access to the ranger of opinions and views held by the political and other legitimate groups as indicated in article 163 of the Constitution.
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana. pages 54-55.
Verified: 2005/10/14
ME004
Question: Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
Answer(s):
b . Government owned c . Privately owned d . Owned by political parties
Comments: (11) "The state shall provide fair opportunity to all political parties to present their programmes to the public by ensuring equal access to the state-owned media.'
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 55 (11)]
Verified: 2005/10/14
ME005
Question: Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?
Answer:
c . Competition exists between government newspaper and at least one private newspaper
Comments:
Source: Public Domain
Verified: 2005/10/14
ME006
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
Answer:
a . Over 60%
Comments: Each regional Capital has FM stations and this is accessisble at the districh levels.
Source: Pblic Domain.
Verified: 2005/10/14
ME008
Question: What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
Answer:
a . Over 60%
Comments: (12) "All presidential candidates shall be given the same amount of time and space on the state-owned media to present their programmes to the people."There are also private
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 55 (12)
Verified: 2005/10/14
ME009
Question: In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
Answer(s):
a . Public radio
Comments: a.
"GTV shall offer 10 minutes of airtime per week to each presidential candidate (for two months). GTV shall offer 10 minutes per week per each political party contesting the election (for two months.)"
b.
"Where there is competition for limited advertising time or space' fari practices as enjoined by the Constitution should be appointed."
Source: a.
Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
b.
Constitution of the Republic of Ghana
Verified: 2005/10/14
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
a . Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance
Comments: The state shall provide fair opportunity to all political parties to present their programmes to the public by ensuring equal access to the state-owned media. Constitution, art.55
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 55 (11):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/
Verified: 2016/10/05
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
a . Yes, in presidential elections b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments:
Source: EISA Interim Statement of the Election Observer Mission to the 7th December 2012 presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana, p.5: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-interim-statement-presidential-and-1/
Verified: 2016/10/05
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
g . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/10/05
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There is no regulatory mechanism for campaign expenditure in Ghana.
Source: EISA Interim Statement of the Election Observer Mission to the 7th December 2012 presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana, p.5: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-interim-statement-presidential-and-1/
Verified: 2016/10/05
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 5, 249:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/
Verified: 2016/10/05
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art.5, 290: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/
Verified: 2016/10/05
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/
Verified: 2016/10/05
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/
Verified: 2016/10/05
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996):
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/
Verified: 2016/10/05
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Recalls are only applicable at the district level.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 249: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/
Verified: 2016/10/05
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional
Comments: Basically through parliament.
Source: Chapter twenty - five of the 1992 constitution
Verified: 2005/12/14
DD009
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: The 1992 constitution
Verified: 2005/12/14
DD010
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional
Comments: As spelt out in the 1992 Constitution.
Source: Chapter twenty - five of the 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/14
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/14
DD012
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: Applicable at the district level.
Source: The 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/14
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission d . Legislature
Comments: Parliament passes the law and the Electoral Commission over sees the voting.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/14
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: The 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/14
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/10/14
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/14
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/14
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments: Applicable at the district level.
Source: 1992 constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source: The Local Governemnt Act, Act 462
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: The 1992 Constitution and the Local Government Act.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source: The Local Government Act 462
Verified: 2005/12/14
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: the 1992 Constitution and Local Government Act 426
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source: The Local Government Act 462
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments
Comments:
Source: Chapter 25 of the 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Adoption of international treaties c . Transfer of authority to international bodies d . National sovereignty, national self-determination e . Conflict between constitutional organs f . Devolution g . Civil service h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments i . Other public policy issues j . Other (specify)
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments: Issues at the national levels are same for the Sub - national levels in this respect.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Legislative majority
Comments: The legislature does the referendum by an Act of Parliament.
Source: 1992 Constitution, Article 286 Section 1.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
d . Legislature
Comments:
Source: Aritcle 289 (1) of the 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD034
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
e . Other (specify)
Comments: Not explicitly stated in the Article.
Source: Article 290 (4) of the 192 constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD035
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 constitution Chapter Twenty - Five
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
b . Independent electoral commission
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD037
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
b . Qualified majority (specify % below)
Comments: Seventy - five per cent of the voter population turn out.
Source: Article 290(4). of the 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD041
Question: What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD042
Question: In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election? Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: The options are the same for national elections except the quroum.
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
a . Always
Comments: As it is mandatory under the 1992 constitution
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments
Comments:
Source: Chapter Twenty - five of the 1992 constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution Chapter Twenty - five
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
j . Other (specify)
Comments: By an Act of Parliament any provision of the constitution can be amended.
Source: Article 289 (1) of the 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
j . Other (specify)
Comments: Any provision of the Constitution can be amended.
Source: Chapter 25 of the 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
a . A number of individuals
Comments: A private member's Bill is apllicable in this sense.
Source: 1992 constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
a . A number of individuals
Comments: A private member or in Parliament by a parliamentarian.
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD051
Question: What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
Answer(s):
b . General explanation of purpose c . Full proposed text
Comments:
Source: Standing orders of Parliament.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Legislature
Comments:
Source: Standing Orders of Parliament
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
d . Legislature
Comments:
Source: Standing Orders of Parliament
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
a . Inconsistency with proposed content c . Discriminatory or inflammatory statements
Comments:
Source: Standing Orders of Parliament.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
d . Other (specify)
Comments: Parliament of Ghana.
Source: Standing Orders of Parliament.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
a . An automatic check is part of the initiative process
Comments:
Source: Standing Oders of Parliament.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD057
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
Answer(s):
d . Legislature
Comments:
Source: Standing Orders of Parliament.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
a . After its registration, before the collection of signatures
Comments:
Source: 1992 constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Legislature
Comments: A private member's bill is spnorsored by a member of Parliament.
Source: Standing orders of Parliament.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
a . After the initiative is initially registered
Comments: Work is done on it in Parliament before it is passed.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
a . Only the alternative proposal is qualified for the ballot
Comments:
Source: Parliamentary procedures.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
c . Legislature
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
a . Within a certain time limit (specify)
Comments: A peroid of six months.
Source: Article 290(3) of the 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD076
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Const.
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD077
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Const
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: 1992 Const
Verified: 2005/12/15
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
b . Sometimes binding
Comments: The President shall, under clause (1) of this article, and acting in accordance with the results of the referendum held under clauses (4) and (5) of this article, issue a constitutional instrument giving effect, or enabling effect to be given, to the results. Constitution, art. 5
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 5: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/10/05
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments: Constitutional changes and creation, alteration or merger of regions.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 5 and 290: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/view
Verified: 2016/10/05
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Subject to any procedure established by law, the mandate of a member of a District Assembly may be revoked by the electorate or the appointing body. Constitution, art. 249
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996), art. 249: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/
Verified: 2016/10/05
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Election Official Manual for the 1996 elections
Source: ACE Project sample materials
Verified: 2005/07/01
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections d . At specially designated polling stations h . By proxy
Comments: Where two or more polling stations are established for an electoral area, the returning officer shall (a) assign to each of the stations a number of voters registered in the electoral area subject to the approval of the Commission;
and (b) publish a notice in the electoral area to inform voters of the stations to which they have been assigned.The Public Elections Regulations, art.18
Source: The Public Elections Regulations (2016), art. 18, 23, 25: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-public-elections-regulations-2016/
Verified: 2016/10/05
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
c . Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation) e . Students f . Diplomatic staff
Comments: A registered voter who is absent from the constituency and will be unable to vote on polling day may not less than forty-two days before the poll in the constituency apply to the returning officer of the constituency or to the Commission for the name of the registered voter to be entered on the proxy list.The Public Elections Regulations, art. 25
Source: The Public Elections Regulations (2016), art. 25: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-public-elections-regulations-2016/
Verified: 2016/10/05
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
d . By proxy
Comments:
Source: The Public Elections Regulations (2016), art.25: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-public-elections-regulations-2016/
Verified: 2016/10/05
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
b . Yes
Comments: "There are two categories of special voters. One is made up of security personnel and election officials who will be on election duty outside their constituencies on the day of the poll. They are allowed to vote at their constituency center on a day set aside for the purpose before election day."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Verified: 2005/07/01
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
a . At special advance polling centers
Comments: "There are two categories of special voters. One is made up of security personnel and election officials who will be on election duty outside their constituencies on the day of the poll. They are allowed to vote at their constituency center on a day set aside for the purpose before election day."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Verified: 2005/07/01
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: the Security Personel and #Electoral Commission Staff.
Source:
Verified: 2005/07/01
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2005/07/01
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments:
Source: The Public Elections Regulations (2016), art. 33: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-public-elections-regulations-2016/
Verified: 2016/10/05
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