Confusion hits NPP polling station registration in Tarkwa-Nsuaem

The polling station registration exercise being undertaken by the New Patriotic Party in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Constituency has been marred by confusion and rising tensions in several electoral areas.

The exercise, which forms part of efforts by the party to update its polling station album and reorganise its grassroots structures, has sparked controversy among party members who claim the process is not being conducted in accordance with directives from the national leadership.

Some members and local party organisers say the situation has created uncertainty and mistrust within the constituency, with disagreements emerging over how the registration process is being managed.

A major point of contention is the reported decision by some electoral area coordinators not to make available the official polling station albums designated for the exercise. Instead, in some centres, members are said to be asked to have their names recorded in ordinary exercise books. Critics argue that the use of such unofficial materials could compromise the credibility of the registration exercise.

Many grassroots supporters believe that relying on exercise books instead of the official party register creates room for manipulation and makes it difficult to properly verify the authenticity of the process.

The situation has been further complicated by allegations that the constituency secretary released registration booklets to certain individuals believed to be close associates, rather than distributing them to recognised electoral area coordinators and polling station chairpersons as required by party procedures.

These allegations have heightened suspicion among party faithful, with some members expressing concern that the process could be influenced by internal interests.

In a number of polling stations, members have reportedly rejected attempts to have their names written in exercise books, insisting that only the official party register should be used. The disagreements have led to heated exchanges in several communities.

At Nkanponasi, tensions reportedly escalated when party members confronted each other over who had the authority to take custody of the registration materials, resulting in a physical altercation.

Similar confrontations were reported in Nsuaem, Tarkwa Banso, Layout and Lowcost, where disputes over the use of unofficial recording materials nearly resulted in physical clashes among party supporters.

Party members have also expressed concern over the absence of a clear timetable for the exercise, even though the registration process began more than a week ago. According to them, the lack of a defined schedule has contributed to the confusion surrounding the exercise.

Observers within the constituency warn that the growing frustration among grassroots supporters could lead to further disturbances if the issues are not addressed promptly.

They called the on the national leadership of the New Patriotic Party to step in to resolve the concerns, ensure strict compliance with the party’s guidelines and restore confidence in the exercise among members in the constituency.