AFRICAN REFORM MOVEMENT vs. THE ELECTORAL COMMISSION

KUSI-APPIAH, J.A.: This appeal turns on the correct interpretation to place on section 9(c) of the Political Parties Act, 2000 (Act 574). There are other ancillary matters too. The section provides that: “The commission shall not register a political party under this Act unless – 9(c) the party has branches in all the regions and is, in addition organised in not less than two-thirds of the districts in each region.” The appellant contends that by this provision the respondent’s basis for denying the issue of a final certificate of registration for non-compliance with section 9(c) of Act 574 is misconceived and misplaced because the proper interpretation of section 9(c) of Act 574 does not mean physical existence of party offices in the regions and districts. The respondent contends otherwise. This is the bone of contention in this appeal but as I said earlier there are other grounds of appeal which will be unfolded shortly. I believe that the appellant’s appeal ag...