The age of Akua Donkor, founder and leader of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), who died on October 28 at the Ridge Hospital in Accra, has been questioned following distinct reports online.
Several media houses have reported that Akua Donkor was 72 years old when she died, adding that she was born in February 1952.
However, a document from the Electoral Commission highlighting the profile of the 2024 presidential candidates indicates otherwise. Per the document released as of September 2024, the late Akua Donkor who hails from Adwuratia, was 69 years. This indicates that she was born in 1955.
To cement the EC’s age provided, the online platform AdomNews reported the manner in which Akua Donkor marked her 65th birthday in 2020. This report indicates that she was born in June.
However, additional information from one of the deceased’s children, Mary, who engaged the media noted that her mother was 83 years old. This suggests that Akua Donkor was born in 1941.
One of the criteria for presidential aspirants is “forms should include properly attested statutory declarations stating that candidate has provided accurate details to the Commission, has met all the requirements and is qualified for the office of President”.
This inconsistency raises questions about official records, as presidential candidates must submit verified statutory declarations to confirm their eligibility.
Akua Donkor’s political journey began as the Assemblywoman for Herman, where she gained recognition for her bold political ambitions. In 2012, she made her first bid for the presidency as an independent candidate but was disqualified by the Electoral Commission on eligibility grounds.
Unfazed, she lent her support to Papa Kwesi Nduom of the Progressive People’s Party (PPP) that same year. Her presidential aspirations faced further setbacks in 2016 when a fire destroyed the GFP headquarters in Kabu, Eastern Region, again affecting her eligibility and resulting in her disqualification.
Following news of her passing, tributes have poured in from across the nation, honouring her dedication to Ghanaian politics. With her passing, the GFP must now select a new flagbearer if the party intends to participate in the upcoming elections.
