EC Denies Creation Of 25 New Constituencies

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(Jean Mensah, EC Chairperson)

The Electoral Commission (EC) has responded to reports circulating on social media about the creation of 25 new constituencies, clarifying that only one new constituency, the Guan Constituency in the Oti Region, is being established.

The EC emphasized that no decisions have been made regarding the creation of constituencies beyond the Guan Constituency. They urged the public to disregard the misinformation being spread, as it can contribute to confusion and unnecessary panic.

On October 31, the EC presented a Constitutional Instrument (CI) to Parliament, proposing the establishment of the Guan constituency. This CI, known as the Representation of the People (Parliamentary Constituencies) Amendment Instrument 2023, aims to include the Santrokofi, Akpafu, Likpe, and Lolobi SALL traditional areas. These areas were unable to vote for a parliamentary candidate in the 2020 General Elections.


The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, presented the CI to the house. It seeks to add the Guan constituency to the existing 275 constituencies, ensuring that the previously excluded areas have representation in Parliament.

However, it is expected that a separate bill will be introduced to Parliament to create additional constituencies specifically for the 2024 general elections. This bill will undergo extensive stakeholder considerations before being presented, and it may propose the establishment of more constituencies beyond the Guan Constituency.

It is worth noting that the EC has expressed its intentions to establish new constituencies in the past. Bossman Asare, the Commissioner for Corporate Affairs of the Electoral Commission, had previously identified the Guan District as one of the areas slated to receive a new constituency during the process of creating new constituencies for the 2024 elections. These efforts aim to address limitations and ensure fair representation for all eligible voters.


As part of the procedural steps, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has referred the instrument to the Subsidiary Legislation Committee for careful consideration and a subsequent report. This committee will thoroughly examine the CI to ensure its compliance with legal and constitutional requirements before further actions can be undertaken.

In conclusion, the Electoral Commission has clarified that only one new constituency, the Guan Constituency, is being created, refuting the rumors circulating on social media about the creation of 25 constituencies. Any establishment of additional constituencies beyond Guan will require further deliberation and the passing of a dedicated bill. The EC's efforts are aimed at addressing existing gaps and promoting fair representation in parliamentary elections.

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