In a significant ruling on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, the High Court in Obuasi dismissed the election petition filed by former Trade and Industry Minister, Kobina Tahiru Hammond. The petition challenged the election of Godwin Animli Dorgbadzi Dorani as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Adansi Asokwa following the 2024 general elections. The court, presided over by Justice Kwabena Twumasi, not only rejected the petition but also imposed a fine of ¢60,000 on Mr. Hammond for what it described as an unnecessary waste of judicial time.
Background of the Case
The electoral contest for the Adansi Asokwa parliamentary seat during the 2024 general elections saw Mr. Hammond lose to Mr. Dorani by a margin of 954 votes. The official results showed Mr. Dorani polling 14,229 votes, while Mr. Hammond garnered 13,275 votes. Dissatisfied with the outcome, Mr. Hammond filed an election petition at the Obuasi High Court on January 15, 2025, seeking to overturn the results.
Court Proceedings and Ruling
Despite initiating legal action, Mr. Hammond failed to appear before the court on three consecutive occasions, prompting Justice Kwabena Twumasi to proceed with delivering a ruling in his absence. In dismissing the petition, the court found no merit in the arguments presented and emphasized the need to respect the democratic process and the mandate given by voters.
The court's decision also highlighted the importance of judicial efficiency. By imposing a fine of ¢60,000 on Mr. Hammond, the court sent a clear message that frivolous petitions and unwarranted delays would not be tolerated.
Reactions to the Verdict
Following the proceedings, Richard Andy, counsel for the incumbent MP, addressed the media and expressed satisfaction with the ruling. He described the petition as lacking any legal foundation and reaffirmed his client's legitimacy as the duly elected representative for Adansi Asokwa.
"This ruling is a victory not only for my client but also for democracy and justice," Mr. Andy stated. "It will enable Honorable Dorani to focus on fulfilling his mandate and serving the people of Adansi Asokwa without distractions."
Implications Moving Forward
The dismissal of this election petition underscores the judiciary's role in safeguarding electoral integrity while deterring baseless challenges that undermine democratic processes. For Mr. Dorani, the decision allows him to concentrate fully on his parliamentary duties and deliver on his promises to constituents.
As Ghana continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting electoral outcomes and adhering to legal protocols when disputes arise.
Conclusion
The High Court's ruling marks a decisive end to months of legal uncertainty surrounding the Adansi Asokwa parliamentary seat. With the petition dismissed and a fine imposed on Mr. Hammond, attention now shifts to governance and development in the constituency under the leadership of Honorable Godwin Animli Dorgbadzi Dorani.
This outcome reinforces the principle that elections are a cornerstone of democracy and that their results must be upheld unless compelling evidence to the contrary is presented in court.
-Citinewsroom
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
