Dr. Peter Appiahene, a member of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana, has vehemently denied allegations made against him in a viral video circulated by Captain Smart, a journalist with Onua TV.
Dr. Appiahene, who doubles as Senior Lecturer and Head of Department at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, expressed his shock at the accusations, stating unequivocally that the allegations are entirely false and without any foundation.
“I wish to categorically state that this allegation is completely false and without any evidence. As a matter of fact, I have not been to the EC head office in months.
“During the period of the balloting, I was in Sunyani, fulfilling my duties as a Senior Lecturer and Head of Department at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR).”
Dr. Peter Appiahene, Member of the Electoral Commission (EC)
In the video, Captain Smart accused Dr. Appiahene of being present at the EC’s head office during the recent balloting for positions on the ballot paper for Ghana’s upcoming general elections.
The journalist also claimed that Dr. Appiahene played a pivotal role in helping the New Patriotic Party (NPP) secure the first position on the ballot by allegedly providing a special yellow-colored ball.
The video in question, which has been widely shared on social media, suggested that Dr. Appiahene was actively involved in the balloting process, implying that his presence favored the NPP.
According to Captain Smart, the provision of a yellow-colored ball by Dr. Appiahene played a significant role in securing the number one spot for the ruling political party on the ballot paper.
Dr. Appiahene did not stop at denying the allegations; he also challenged Captain Smart to provide any form of evidence to support the claims. He pointed out that there is sufficient proof at his university to verify his presence in Sunyani during the balloting process.
According to Dr. Appiahene, records at UENR can confirm his activities in Sunyani at the time of the balloting, further debunking the journalist’s allegations.
Integrity and Commitment to Fair Elections
Dr. Appiahene also emphasized his commitment to upholding the principles of fairness, transparency, and integrity as a member of the Electoral Commission. Since his appointment, he has strived to maintain these values, which, he says, have guided his professional work.
“My commitment is to help the Commission deliver credible elections for the benefit of the nation, not for any individual or political party,” Dr. Appiahene stressed.
He further highlighted his dedication to ensuring that the EC delivers free and fair elections that reflect the will of the people. He reaffirmed his impartial stance, stating that he holds no allegiance to any political party and his sole focus remains the credibility of the electoral process.
In the wake of the allegations, Dr. Appiahene urged the public to treat the claims made by Captain Smart with the “contempt they deserve.”
He emphasized that the allegations are not only unfounded but also harmful to the integrity of the Electoral Commission and its members, whose main objective is to ensure that Ghana’s electoral processes are conducted with the highest standards of fairness.
The tone of Dr. Appiahene’s response reflects a sense of frustration at the personal attacks and what he sees as attempts to undermine his integrity. He expressed his belief that the false allegations have the potential to harm his reputation, which he has built over years of public service and academic work.
“I come from a decent family with strong values, and I have no intention of tarnishing that legacy,” he stated, further distancing himself from any actions that could be construed as partisan or unethical.
Dr. Appiahene’s firm response is likely to calm some of the speculation surrounding the balloting process, as the Electoral Commission continues its preparations for the upcoming general elections.
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