CDD to observe Gomoa East bye-election

The Ghana Centre for Democratic Development said on Monday that it would send a team of observers to monitor Tuesday's Gomoa East bye-election.

A statement signed by Dr. Baffour Agyeman-Duah, Associate Executive Director, said the exercise seeks to ensure a free, fair, transparent and peaceful election.

"It also aims at complementing the efforts of the Electoral Commission to conduct legitimate elections, which is one key element of good governance."

CDD said observing the Gomoa East bye-election has become important following allegations of electoral irregularities in recent bye-elections, adding that it is hoped that its observers would provide an independent and non-partisan report.

It said the exercise would also help to identify potential gaps in the electoral process, recommend improvements and prepare local capacity to observe future votes, particularly the 2004 elections.

CDD appealed to the contesting parties to conduct themselves with dignity. It also asked the security agencies to approach their national duty with professionalism and utmost respect for the Constitution.

Three candidates - Richmond Sam Quarm (NPP), Richard Kojo Annan (NDC) and Evan Kofi Otoo (DPP) - are contesting the election.