Emmanuel Felix Mantey, a member of the Progressive People’s Party PPP’s communication team has said that the electoral commission’s presidential candidates filing fee of GHC100,000 is only promoting two-party system in Ghana.
Speaking on Amansan Television Asem Yi Dika show. Mr. Mantey said the astronomical fee is a move to keep smaller political parties and individuals interested in running as independent at bay to allow the only parties capable of paying such fees, the NPP and NDC contest in the 2020 elections.
READ ALSO NDC 2020 Manifesto: Upper East region to get domestic airport
He added that the EC doesn’t need that amount because its activities are fully funded by the state. He also stated that the requirements for running for the presidency doesn’t include the ability to raise funds.
The Electoral commission has however said the amount is only a deposit which will be refunded should a candidate secure over 25% of the total votes cast in the election as stated by the constitution of Ghana.
READ ALSO You can copy our ideas but you can’t copy our performance and record – Bawumia to Mahama
Public disquiet over filing fee
There’s been palpable public disquiet following the Electoral commission’s announcement of the GHC100,000 presidential filing fee.
Political parties, CSO’s among others have raised concerns over the 100% increment from the GHC50,000 it charged in 2016.
