In a landmark ruling with far-reaching implications for Ghana's democratic process, the Supreme Court has declared the country's delegate system unconstitutional, directing all political parties to allow every registered member in good standing to participate in the election of both presidential and parliamentary candidates.

The decision, delivered by a 5-2 majority, is expected to significantly reshape how political parties conduct their internal elections ahead of future national polls.

Court Orders Political Parties to Open Internal Elections

The Supreme Court ruled that restricting the selection of presidential and parliamentary candidates to a limited body of delegates is inconsistent with the Constitution.

As a result, the Court ordered that all registered members of political parties who are in good standing must be given the right to vote in internal primaries, effectively introducing a one-member-one-vote system across political parties.

The judgment affects the internal electoral processes of all political parties operating in Ghana.

Landmark Decision for Ghana's Democracy

The ruling is widely regarded as one of the most significant constitutional decisions on political party governance in recent years.

Political analysts believe the judgment could:

Major Implications for Future Elections

The decision means political parties may now need to review and amend their constitutions, electoral guidelines, and nomination procedures to comply with the Supreme Court's directive.

The ruling is expected to have a major impact on preparations for future presidential and parliamentary primaries, potentially changing how candidates are elected across Ghana's political landscape.

Further details, including the Court's full legal reasoning and implementation timeline, are expected following the release of the official judgment.