In a major legal win for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its parliamentary candidate, the Sekondi High Court, presided by His Lordship George K. Gyan-Kontoh, has overturned the injunction that had temporarily prevented Joana Gyan Cudjoe from running in the December 7 parliamentary election for the Amenfi Central constituency.
The ruling, handed down on Monday, November 11, 2024, followed earlier proceedings where the NDC fought to reverse the disqualification and secure their candidate’s place in the election.
Represented by a legal team headed by Lawyer Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, the NDC argued that any delays in resolving the issue could result in serious consequences, potentially leaving the candidate unable to run and harming the party’s electoral position in Amenfi Central.
During prior sessions, Lawyer Tamakloe advocated strongly for a quick review of the case, emphasizing the urgency and warning that any postponements could compromise the fairness of the election.
In response, His Lordship Gyan-Kontoh committed to a speedy resolution and even encouraged the parties to seek an out-of-court agreement, though those efforts did not succeed.
In its ruling today, the court removed the injunction, allowing Joana Gyan Cudjoe to continue her candidacy. This decision not only eliminates the legal barrier but also re-energizes the NDC’s campaign as the general elections approach.
The timing of the decision strengthens the party’s position as competition in the Amenfi Central race remains tight.
Legal and Political Reactions
After the ruling, Lawyer Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, the NDC’s Director of Legal Affairs and lead attorney for Joana Gyan Cudjoe, spoke briefly outside the courthouse, expressing cautious optimism. He urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to acknowledge and act on the court’s ruling.
“I want to thank the courts. I won’t say more. The electoral commission’s representative was present in court and knows that the injunction has been lifted. The reason Joana Gyan was disqualified was based on the injunction, and now that it is no longer in place, Jean Mensa should act accordingly. I will say no more”.
Lawyer Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, Director of Legal Affairs of the NDC
Joana Gyan Cudjoe, appearing relieved and hopeful, thanked her supporters and legal team, saying “We are grateful for today’s outcome, especially my new legal team who came to my aid… I thank God and the entire NDC, including its leaders and members in the Western Region. I am very happy,” she said.
In a celebratory message, NDC General Secretary Hon. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey voiced his approval in a statement, calling the ruling a victory for justice and democracy.
“Victory for Joana Gyan Cudjoe! The Sekondi High Court has vacated the injunction against our Amenfi Central candidate. Hon. Joana Gyan Cudjoe is now cleared to contest the 2024 elections. Let’s push forward for a resounding win on December 7!”
Hon. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, NDC General Secretary
With this ruling lifting the legal obstacle that had threatened the NDC’s campaign in Amenfi Central, the focus now turns to the Electoral Commission’s response and next steps.
The EC is expected to officially acknowledge the ruling, allowing Joana Gyan Cudjoe to be placed back on the ballot.
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