Ejisu by-election: Police investigates alleged bribery
The Ghana Police Service has commenced an investigation into the alleged electoral offence involving some temporary officers of the Electoral Commission (EC) and the Member of Parliament (MP) for Kwadaso, Dr Kingsley Nyarko.
An update from the police on Friday, May 3, said the EC officials George Sasu and Regina Serwaa, as well as Dr Nyarko, have subsequently been invited by the police to assist with the investigation and their statements duly taken.
The law enforcement body also indicated that they were working with the EC to delve into the matter.
Background
A video that captured Dr Nyarko offering a white envelope to the EC officials during the by-election on Tuesday, April 30, stirred controversy on corruption.
Dr Nyarko was captured removing an envelope from his pocket and dropping it on the table manned by the Presiding Officer and Ballot Issuer at the Fumesua Pentecost Church polling station.
Later in an interview, Dr Nyarko vehemently denied that the parcel was a bribe, citing that he wouldn’t dare to engage in such conduct openly.
“If I were to influence them, do you think I would do it in that public space? What I want to put on record is that I did not bribe anybody, I have not influenced anybody to vote or to do anything untoward for my candidate,” he stressed.
Despite the video’s circulation and potential interpretations, Dr Nyarko maintained his innocence, citing his track record of discipline and integrity as a teacher of high repute.
He expressed readiness to cooperate with investigations if required.
The Ejisu seat became vacant after the late lawmaker and deputy Finance Minister, Dr John Kumah, died after a short illness on March 7, 2024.
The contestants were: NPP candidate Kwabena Boateng; Kwabena Owusu Aduomi, a defected former NPP MP who is now running as an independent candidate; Esther Osei (CPP); Beatrice Boakye (LPG); Gabriel Agyemang Joseph (Independent); and Attakorah Joseph (Independent).