Veteran Ghanaian journalist, Kwesi Pratt has expressed surprise at the dismissal of a petition he described as detailed and substantial, following the Chief Justice’s ruling that no prima facie case had been established.
Pratt disclosed that he had read one of the petitions seeking the removal of the Electoral Commission leadership and found it extensive.
“It’s a 95-page petition. Thorough, really thorough,” he said Speaking on Pan African TV, monitored by MyNewsGh.
“This is the petition which is talking about data breaches and the dangers that the Electoral Commission through its practices subjected citizens to.”
According to him, the document contained references to practices and supporting materials.
“I’m wondering how anybody can decide that a petition like this is frivolous. I just cannot imagine it,” Pratt stated.
He said he was “completely shocked” by the Chief Justice’s conclusion, particularly at the stage of determining whether a prima facie case had been established.
“If you read Article 146 very closely, at this point of the determination of whether or not there’s a prima facie case, evidence is not required,” he argued.
However, Pratt acknowledged that the Constitution empowers the Chief Justice to make a final decision.
“That’s his decision and the Constitution empowers him to make a final decision. We have to live with it,” he said.
He noted that the only avenue left would be for others to submit fresh petitions, although he questioned whether a different outcome would result.
