Two newly registered political parties received their certificates from the Electoral Commission (EC) on Wednesday, 2nd October, 2024, at the Head Office of the EC.
This brings the number of registered political parties to fourteen (14).
The two new political parties are United 1 Ghana and Action Alliance Party.
Madam Margaret O’Brien Sarfo, an Interim Executive Member, received the certificate on behalf United 1 Ghana, while Mr. Namuru Tahiru, an Interim Executive Member, received the certificate on behalf of Action Alliance Party.
Mr. Namuru Tahiru of Action Alliance Party receiving Certificate from Mr. Benjamin Bano-Bioh, Director of Electoral Services of the EC
Chairperson of theElectoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, has reported that significant progress has been made in addressing the issues identified in the voter register.
This she said during an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday, October 1, held at the Alisa Hotel.
She noted that while the register is still a work in progress and contains some minor inaccuracies, this is to be expected in any large-scale registration exercise.
Jean Mensa reassured stakeholders that the commission is aware of these challenges and is actively working to correct them.
“These errors are not unusual. All it takes are conscientious efforts to get them resolved,” she stated.
She assured political party representatives that the EC has already taken steps to correct the discrepancies identified since the initial release of the voter register.
“You will realise that the voters register for today is different from what was provided to the parties in August,” she explained.
Jean Mensa highlighted that the discrepancies detected to date have been largely rectified.
“The register that we have today is different from what was given to the political parties in August,” she reiterated, urging all stakeholders to trust the commission in its efforts.
“We have a track record of delivering free and fair elections. Our staff are well trained, and we have what it takes to produce a credible register,” Jean Mensa added.
She called on all political parties to trust the commission ahead of the December polls.
The Electoral Commission (EC) is holding an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting today, Tuesday, October 1, 2024.
The meeting is intended to provide political parties with an opportunity to present any findings they may have regarding the Provisional Voters Register (PVR). It will also allow the EC to present an updated report on issues it has resolved with the PVR.
In a move to keep citizens informed, the Commission has announced that the meeting will be covered live, as part of its ongoing efforts to build trust in its processes. The EC is optimistic that feedback from political parties will help further strengthen the 2024 Voters Register.
This meeting follows persistent pressure on the EC to conduct a forensic audit of the Voters Register, after the National Democratic Congress (NDC) raised concerns about the integrity of the register, particularly regarding the transfer of voters without their consent.
The Electoral Commission (EC) will hold an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting today, Tuesday, October 1, 2024.
The meeting is intended to provide political parties with an opportunity to present any findings they may have regarding the Provisional Voters Register (PVR). It will also allow the EC to present an updated report on issues it has resolved with the PVR.
In a move to keep citizens informed, the Commission has announced that the meeting will be covered live, as part of its ongoing efforts to build trust in its processes. The EC is optimistic that feedback from political parties will help further strengthen the 2024 Voters Register.
This meeting follows persistent pressure on the EC to conduct a forensic audit of the Voters Register, after the National Democratic Congress (NDC) raised concerns about the integrity of the register, particularly regarding the transfer of voters without their consent.
However, the EC has maintained that calls for a forensic audit of the Provisional Voters Register are premature, as the Commission has yet to exhaust its established procedures for cleaning the register.
In response to a petition by the NDC, the Commission stated that it had largely resolved the discrepancies identified in the register and would conduct an online exhibition before the final version is released.
In a letter to the NDC, signed by EC Chairperson Mrs. Jean Mensa, the Commission explained, “The exhibition of the Provisional Voters Register allows for inspection and correction of discrepancies.” It also noted that the Commission’s District Officers are currently implementing the decisions and recommendations of the District Registration Review Officers.
Today’s IPAC meeting is expected to play a key role in addressing any remaining concerns and ensuring the integrity of the voters register ahead of the 2024 elections.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has once again called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to allow a live broadcast of the upcoming Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday, October 1.
This, the NDC argues, is necessary to ensure transparency in the electoral process as the nation prepares for the 2024 general elections.
The NDC’s demand for a live broadcast comes after the EC rejected a previous request to televise discussions concerning discrepancies in the Provisional Voters Register (PVR).
In a press release issued on Monday, September 30, the EC urged all stakeholders attending the IPAC meeting to present data and evidence to support claims of discrepancies with the PVR. The Commission maintained that this collaborative approach would help address lingering concerns about the voters’ register.
Despite the EC’s calls, the NDC has yet to submit the data supporting its claims, instead insisting on a forensic audit of the register.
Speaking to Citi News, NDC’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer, emphasized that a credible voters’ register is central to the success of the 2024 elections, and stressed the need for full transparency through a live broadcast of the meeting.
“We believe it’s crucial to have this live broadcast because of the gravity of the issues at hand. The 2024 general elections hinge on the voters’ register, and a credible register is essential for the entire election process,” Dr. Computer said.
He further questioned the EC’s reluctance to allow media coverage of the meeting, adding that transparency is key to restoring public trust.
“The EC’s response suggests they’ll show us how they’ve addressed the issues we’ve raised. It’s important that the media is present to witness this. Transparency is what everyone seeks, and that’s why we’re inviting the EC to allow the media in. If there’s nothing to hide, why block the media?” he concluded.
A Deputy Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr. Bossman Asare, has announced that the commission will present the complete voter’s register to political parties and other relevant stakeholders on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.
This decision comes amid escalating concerns regarding the accuracy and credibility of the provisional voter’s register ahead of the 2024 elections.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile program on Saturday, September 28, Dr. Asare emphasized that presenting the register to political parties and civil society groups is part of the Commission’s efforts to build trust and ensure accountability.
He stated that the upcoming meeting will offer stakeholders the chance to review the register, voice concerns, and seek clarifications on any issues.
Dr. Asare expressed confidence that this engagement will help address the raised concerns and encourage collaboration between the EC and political entities.
“For the good people of our country, we have addressed all the concerns that were raised and right now we have informed the political parties that we will have an IPAC meeting with them on Tuesday and in the said meeting, we will present the entire voter’s register to the political parties and other groups on Tuesday. So we want to request all of them to make themselves available at the meeting,” he said.
The announcement follows requests from various political entities, particularly the National Democratic Congress (NDC), for an audit of the voter’s register. The NDC has voiced worries about alleged discrepancies in the provisional list and has called for immediate actions to enhance transparency in the electoral process.
Although the Electoral Commission had previously dismissed calls for an audit, deeming them unnecessary, Dr. Asare reassured the public of the EC’s commitment to a fair and transparent electoral process.
The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has firmly denied claims that any presidential aspirant was disqualified from the upcoming elections based on personal reasons.
In response to widespread speculation suggesting bias against certain candidates, the EC clarified that all disqualifications were conducted through a rigorous and transparent process, strictly adhering to legal and constitutional guidelines.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, September 28, Dr. Bossman Asare, the Deputy Commissioner in charge of Corporate Affairs, emphasised that the process was not designed to target any specific aspirant.
“All disqualifications were in accordance with the law. The Commission followed a thorough process to ensure that all candidates meet the necessary requirements to participate in the elections,” he stated.
Dr. Bossman further explained that every disqualified aspirant was given sufficient time and opportunities to address any issues related to their nominations, reinforcing the Commission’s commitment to fairness.
“When we started the nomination process, the returning officer made it clear that the Commission had formed two committees— a Technical Committee and an IT Committee—each with specific responsibilities. The Technical Committee ensured that all aspirants were qualified, while the IT Committee verified that those endorsing the candidates were eligible,” he said.
He also pointed out that the EC’s thorough review of the applications led to the disqualification of some aspirants who did not meet the Commission’s requirements.
“So, at the end of the exercise, we found that 10 candidates couldn’t satisfy the necessary criteria. We conducted a scientific review, and anyone who believes the Commission disqualified them for personal reasons is mistaken,” Dr. Bossman insisted.
In total, the EC approved thirteen presidential candidates for the elections, while eleven others were disqualified. Currently, two of the disqualified aspirants have taken legal action against the Commission.
Electoral Commission (EC)has announced an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting scheduled for Monday, September 30, 2024, at its conference room.
The meeting, which will focus on the electoral register, comes in response to ongoing concerns about the integrity of the voter roll ahead of the 2024 general elections.
This meeting follows the demand for a forensic audit of the Provisional Voter’s Register (PVR) by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), citing discrepancies in the current voter roll.
The NDC’s call for an audit was part of a petition submitted after a demonstration on September 17, 2024.
However, the EC, led by Jean Mensa, has dismissed the need for such an audit, maintaining that the current legal and administrative mechanisms in place to address any issues with the register have not yet been fully utilised.
In a letter to NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the EC emphasised its confidence in the robustness of the current electoral roll, stating: “As a Commission, we are of the view that the existing legal and administrative processes for cleaning the PVR have not been fully exhausted to justify the call for a forensic audit.”
The EC reassured both the NDC and the general public that it is actively addressing the discrepancies identified in the PVR, as it did during the 2020 general elections, and that the same processes will be applied for the upcoming 2024 polls.
In an effort to foster transparency, the EC has invited the NDC to participate in discussions and observe the steps being taken to resolve any issues in the voter register.
Additionally, the EC responded to concerns about the illegal transfer of votes, revealing that its District Officer in Pusiga, Upper East Region, had been dismissed for facilitating 38 illegal vote transfers, which have since been corrected.
Regarding theNDC’s request for a re-exhibition of the voter register, the EC cited time constraints but assured voters that an online version of the register would remain accessible until election day.
The EC concluded by urging trust in the established processes and reaffirming its commitment to delivering a transparent and credible election in 2024.
Yellow Ghana presidential candidate, Samuel Apeah-Danquah, has called for a swift and amicable resolution with the Electoral Commission (EC) after being disqualified from participating in the upcoming December 7 elections.
In a letter dated September 20, addressed to EC Chairperson Jean Mensa, Apeah-Danquah’s legal team urged that the issue be resolved “within three days of receipt of the letter, failing which we will explore other legal avenues for redress.”
The legal team asserts that their client was “wrongfully disqualified and seeks immediate redress to partake in the election.”
The EC recently disqualified several presidential aspirants, citing their inability to rectify errors on their nomination forms. This announcement was made by Jean Mensa during a press briefing in Accra last Friday.
According to the EC, all disqualified candidates were given sufficient time to address the issues found in their submissions but failed to meet the required standards.
Among those disqualified were Bernard Mornah of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Janet Nabla of the People’s National Party (PNP), Nana Stephens Adjepong, Paul Perkoh, James Kwesi Oppong, John Enyonam Kwakwu Kpikpi, Dr. Samuel Sampong Ankrah, and Nii Amu Darko.
Samuel Apeah-Danquah, along with Desmond Abrefah and Kofi Asamoah Siaw of the Progressive People’s Party (PPP), were also among those disqualified.
The EC stressed that the disqualification process adhered strictly to electoral regulations to ensure transparency and fairness.
Jean Mensa stated: “Mr. Samuel Apeah-Danquah was presented with a number of issues to resolve, including not filing a tax certificate for his Vice Presidential candidate, missing pages from the form, and incomplete particulars for some of his supporters. Unfortunately, though he was provided the opportunity to correct this, he was unable to do so, and the committee recommended his disqualification.”
Apeah-Danquah’s legal team, however, refutes this assertion, contending that their client addressed all the concerns and submitted the required documents within the deadline.
They have outlined a comprehensive sequence of events, backed by evidence, and are currently awaiting an official reply from the EC.
Electoral Commission (EC) officials in the Ashanti Region have initiated steps to remove around 580 names from the Manhyia South voter register, following a court order.
The action was prompted after the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the constituency flagged irregularities during the voter transfer exercise and sought legal clarification.
On Tuesday, the Kumasi Magistrate Court, presided over by Her Worship Deborah Gyaawa Donkor, directed the EC to return the affected voters to their original constituencies.
Speaking with Citi News, NPP Manhyia South Constituency Secretary, Alhaji Haruna Alhassan, emphasised that the party would ensure the ruling is fully implemented.
He also urged other NPP stronghold constituencies to check for similar anomalies and seek legal redress where necessary.
“It was during the transfer that we, the NPP in the Manhyia South constituency, became conscious about certain things relative to the transfer of votes to the constituency.
“We became conscious because the transfers to the constituency were not normal to us, but per the LI, there is nothing we could have done…During the exhibition, we followed up and found out that about five or six polling stations out of the 107 polling stations we have in Manhyia South have had some abnormal transfers.”
“For example, we had about 150 transfers to St. Loius Training College of Education…So we sent the matter to court, and we appeared before the court five times.
So eventually yesterday the court ordered that 580 people who were transferred to Manhyia South during the transfer period should be sent back to where their votes were originally. We are going to follow up on that and make sure that the right thing is done,” he stated.
Flagbearer of the People’s National Convention, Bernard Anbataayela Mornah, has filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission (EC) following his disqualification from the presidential race for the upcoming December elections. Mornah was one of 11 presidential candidates who faced disqualification.
The EC stated that these candidates were barred from participating in the December 7, 2024, elections because they did not rectify errors on their nomination forms.
EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa, explained, “Mr Bernard Mornah also had incomplete details of supporters. He also used registered voters in a particular district to support the nomination in other districts.
His form also contained varying signatures for the same supporters and in some cases the same signature for different supporters. The committee was of the view that he be disqualified.”
But Mr Mornah argues that his disqualification is a breach of his rights, was illegal and failed to comply with due process requirements imposed by law.
He is therefore demanding “An order of mandamus compelling the 2nd respondent to declare the 1st applicant as duly nominated to contest the 2024 public presidential elections.”
“An order restraining the 1st and 2nd respondents from printing the presidential ballot papers or carrying on with the December 7, 2024 Public Presidential Elections until 1st Applicant is declared duly nominated candidate of the 2nd applicant and allowed to contest the said elections.”
The Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has raised serious concerns regarding the Electoral Commission’s (EC) reluctance to release the final voter register to the party.
Speaking at a meeting with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders on Monday, September 23, Dr. Boamah stated, “The EC is afraid of releasing the final voter register to the party because it is scared of what more discrepancies we will expose from the register.”
Dr. Boamah’s remarks come amid growing frustrations within the NDC regarding the EC’s failure to provide the final register ahead of the upcoming elections.
He expressed that this delay raises troubling questions about the transparency of the electoral process, emphasizing, “The EC’s failure to make the register available reflects a lack of commitment to ensuring free and fair elections.”
The NDC has reportedly made multiple requests for access to the final voter register, but Dr. Boamah indicated that the EC has not responded satisfactorily.
He further hinted that the Commission’s reluctance to share the register could signal deeper issues within the electoral body, fueling suspicions of possible irregularities or attempts to manipulate the electoral process.
“A credible voter’s register is crucial for the integrity of the elections,” he asserted, underscoring the importance of transparency in the electoral process. Dr. Boamah also pointed out that political parties, including the NDC, have a legal right to access the voter register well in advance of the elections.
“The EC has not released the final voter’s register to the political party, but it claims it has resolved all our concerns without knowing them. But they can’t start printing the register without giving us a copy. I feel they are afraid to release the register to us because they don’t know what more discrepancies we will expose,” he concluded.
Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has announced the disqualification of several presidential hopefuls for the upcoming elections on December 7, 2024, due to their failure to amend inaccuracies in their nomination paperwork.
During a press conference held in Accra on Friday, EC Chairperson Jean Mensa detailed the situation. She noted that the candidates were given sufficient opportunity to correct the noted errors but did not comply with the necessary requirements.
Among those disqualified are Bernard Mornah from the People’s National Convention (PNC) and Janet Nabla of the People’s National Party (PNP).
Other candidates facing disqualification include Nana Stephens Adjepong, Paul Perkoh, James Kwesi Oppong, John Enyonam Kwakwu Kpikpi, Dr. Samuel Sampong Ankrah, and Nii Amu Darko.
Furthermore, candidates Samuel Apea-Danquah, Desmond Abrefah, and Kofi Asamoah Siaw from the Progressive People’s Party (PPP) were also removed from the electoral race.
The EC reiterated that the disqualification process adhered strictly to electoral guidelines, ensuring that the proceedings were conducted with integrity and transparency.
The EC Chairperson noted, for instance, that “Mr. Samuel Apea-Dankwa was presented with a number of issues to resolve, including not filing a tax certificate for his Vice Presidential candidate and then some of his pages from the form, and he had incomplete particulars for some of his supporters.
“Unfortunately, though he was provided with the opportunity to correct this, he was unable to do so and the committee recommended that he be disqualified.”
“Ms. Janet Asana Nabla also used the registration details of supporters in certain districts to support her nomination in other districts. Again, the Vice Presidential candidate did not sign the nomination form. The issues were however not resolved, and the committees recommended that she be disqualified.”
“…Mr Bernard Mornah also had incomplete details of supporters. He also used registered voters in a particular district to support the nomination in other districts. His form also contained varying signatures for the same supporters and, in some cases,, the same signature for different supporters. The committee was of the view that he be disqualified.”
He shared during an interview with Peace FM that his uncle, upon hearing the news on September 20, 2024, fell into a coma.
Mornah mentioned that, as of that afternoon, he was unsure if his uncle had regained consciousness.
“As we speak, my uncle in the village is in a coma because of the news that I have been disqualified.
I do not know as of now if he has recovered, but that is the situation with people who are very hopeful of my presidency,” he disclosed.
He faulted the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Madam Jean Mensa, for deliberately disqualifying him without considering the corrections they made in their nomination forms.
“Other candidates were called to come and make some corrections on their nomination forms, and I was also called. We rectified those errors and sent the forms back to the EC, but I am shocked Jean Mensa, whom I have worked with since 2003, could do this to me.
You realised that when she was giving reasons for the disqualification of others, when it got to my turn, she appeared to be fumbling and could not even mention my name.
Someone I have worked with for that long no longer knows my name?” he wondered.
Mr. Mornah hinted that the matter has been referred to his lawyers and is optimistic he will be on the ballot for the 2024 polls despite machinations to remove him.
Bernard Mornah, the former chairman of the People’s National Convention (PNC), has revealed that he only received official communication regarding his disqualification from the 2024 presidential race after his legal team had engaged the Electoral Commission (EC).
Speaking in an interview with JoyNews, Mornah explained that he had attempted multiple times to get clarity from the EC but received no response.
“I reached out to the EC Chair three times, but she could not pick. I called Sammy Tetteh, whose signature is said to be on the release, three times, he also didn’t respond. Then I call Quiaquoe, and he says the committee has finished its job and they have given it to the commission.”
Mr Mornah said his legal team had written to the EC seeking clarification on his disqualification. “On the basis of that, I made my lawyers write to the EC today to demand any information of why we have not received a letter. My lawyers sent the letter to the Electoral Commission, and we have receipt of the EC receiving the letter. Then at 1:17 pm, Asante Kissi now sent me a letter via WhatsApp.”
He further noted that the EC had initially contacted his team regarding some errors in his Nomination Forms, which were rectified immediately. “The EC had earlier reached out to us concerning some errors in page 9, 10, 32 up to 50, and those errors were rectified.”
Despite the corrections, Mornah said he received verbal confirmation from the EC during a phone call while in the Volta Region that the corrections had been received. However, he only officially learned about his disqualification after engaging the EC through his lawyers.
In a communiqué released on Friday, September 20, 2024, the EC disqualified Bernard Mornah and Janet Nabla of the People’s National Party (PNP) following a thorough examination of the Nomination Forms filed between September 9 and September 13, 2024. The EC emphasized that all candidates must meet the legal requirements to contest in the December 2024 elections.
The National Chief Imam of Ghana, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) and political stakeholders to prioritize transparency and accountability in the upcoming December 7 general elections.
As the nation approaches a pivotal democratic exercise, the Chief Imam has urged political leaders to exercise caution in their language and avoid making inflammatory statements that could incite unrest or division among the public.
Addressing a group of Muslim youth in Accra, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu emphasized the crucial role politicians and key players must play in ensuring peace during the electoral process. He pointed out that the responsibility for peaceful elections extends beyond the Electoral Commission and requires a collective effort from political parties, candidates, and their supporters.
Speaking through his spokesperson, Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu, the Chief Imam stressed that politicians, being at the forefront of the campaign season, bear a special responsibility to maintain civility in their utterances, as their words hold significant influence.
The Chief Imam also urged the Electoral Commission to ensure transparency throughout the process.
“As citizens, we must keep the peace. He [Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu] calls on all those who are stakeholders in our election processes, i.e. the EC must do all that it takes to ensure that there is transparency and accountability, to ensure that we can have a credible election that will guarantee a credible result.”
He further emphasized the need for the EC to uphold its duties to secure public trust. “Everything that the EC must do, the EC must make sure they do so. He calls on the political parties to be cautious about the way they speak to their supporters, the vitriolics, the diatribes, and some of the fierce statements that we see being put out there,” he added.
Sheikh Sharubutu’s appeal comes at a time when the nation is gearing up for an important election, with calls for all involved to uphold peace and integrity throughout the process.
General Secretary of theNew Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua,has announced that the party will stage its own protests if the Electoral Commission (EC) permits an independent forensic audit of the 2024 provisional voters’ register, as requested by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) page on Thursday, September 19, 2024, Kodua wrote, “If the EC accepts the position of the NDC, the NPP will also hit the streets.”
This follows a nationwide demonstration by the NDC on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, under the banner of the ‘Enough is Enough Demo.’
The protest was aimed at pressuring the EC to audit the provisional voters’ register ahead of the December 2024 elections.
The NDC claims that the current register is riddled with irregularities and cannot ensure a free and fair election, a position the EC has refuted.
“The irregularities in the Provisional Voters Register (PVR) are not minor oversights or clerical errors; they indicate a deliberate manipulation of the voter database.
“These irregularities pose a significant and immediate threat to the credibility of the 2024 General Elections.
We demand that the Commission takes swift action to preserve the integrity of Ghana’s democratic process and ensure the stability and security of the nation,” the NDC stated in its petition.
The NDCsaid it has found more than 243,000 unauthorised voter transfers and that the transfers were made without the
knowledge and consent of the affected voters and therefore raised significant questions about who approved them and what role EC officials may have played in facilitating such changes.
The Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church of Ghana, Most Rev. Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to take its responsibilities seriously ahead of the December 7 elections, considering the numerous concerns that have emerged.
Dr Boafo urged the EC to be more transparent in its processes and to address the issues raised by political parties. His comments come after the National Democratic Congress (NDC) held a nationwide demonstration on Tuesday, September 17, protesting the EC’s refusal to allow a forensic audit of the voter’s register.
The NDC argues that such an audit is essential to ensure a fair and credible electoral process, alleviating public concerns about the accuracy of the register.
Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, Dr Boafo emphasized the need for the EC to address these concerns, stating, “With the issues at stake, we would not say it is enough; that is why, in the statement, we asked if they could also open up and address these issues. We are not saying that everything is done and finished, and so we should just leave it as it is, no.”
He highlighted that the grievances are not exclusive to the NDC, noting that other political groups, including the New Patriotic Party (NPP), have also raised concerns.
“Looking at all of these, it is not just the NDC; the Alan group might also have their challenge, and the NPP might also have their challenge. All of these are sent to the EC to address. So that, at the end of the day, we can all say that we have a credible register that can lead us to a peaceful election,” Dr. Boafo added.
Paramount Chief of the Goaso Traditional Area in the Ahafo Region, Nana Kwasi Bosomprah, has urged the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, to address concerns raised by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding discrepancies in the voters’ register.
The Goasomanhene’s appeal comes in the wake of the NDC’s “Enough is Enough” nationwide protest on September 17, 2024, which was sparked by the EC’s refusal to allow an external audit of the voter register.
NDC National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, emphasized the importance of a credible voters’ register and called for a forensic audit by the EC to ensure electoral integrity. He noted that the nationwide protest, which spanned all 16 regions of Ghana, was aimed at pressuring the Electoral Commission to address concerns over the accuracy of the voters’ register.
During a meeting with NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama and the Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs, Nana Kwasi Bosomprah added his voice to the calls for an external audit, stating that such a move would help maintain peace and transparency in the electoral process.
“I firmly believe an external audit is necessary. Denying this request raises suspicions. If the EC allows an audit and finds nothing, it will boost its credibility. I urge the EC to heed the NDC’s demands for peace to prevail,” the chief stated.
Nana Bosomprah also expressed frustration over the EC’s refusal to implement his earlier recommendation to decentralize the voter registration process to local villages and districts. He noted that this would have eased access for voters, especially those facing transportation challenges.
“I’m disappointed the EC hasn’t listened. During registration, I advised Chairperson Jean Mensa to decentralize the process to villages and districts for easier access, considering transportation issues,” he added.
The Goasomanhene believes that addressing the NDC’s concerns and committing to an external audit would strengthen trust in the electoral system, ensuring a credible and peaceful electoral process.
I know they're hiding something. Avail yourself for a forensic audit if there's no 'darkness' in the voters register – Goase Manhene to EC Chair#MetroNewspic.twitter.com/iYW7ZDbu4y
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has given the Electoral Commission (EC) a one-week ultimatum to act on their petition, which calls for a forensic audit of the ongoing voter registration process.
Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the NDC, announced this ultimatum during an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story on September 17.
He warned that if the EC fails to respond within the stipulated time, the party will escalate its demands with a series of nationwide protests aimed at pressuring the EC to ensure transparency in the electoral process.
“We have decided to wait for just a week to see how they would respond. It is our expectation that they would do the needful because clearly, the intransigence they are displaying is not in the interest of Ghanaians,” Gyamfi stated.
He emphasized that the NDC remains a law-abiding political party and will use peaceful and constitutional methods to express their dissatisfaction.
“What you saw today is just the tip of the iceberg… we are not going to pick guns or fight anybody. We are a law-abiding political party, so we will do what the constitution of Ghana allows us to do—protest,” Gyamfi reiterated.
Additionally, he questioned the EC’s refusal to permit a forensic audit of the voter registration process, suggesting that their resistance raises suspicions.
“If the EC had nothing to hide, they should embrace the call for an audit as an opportunity to prove their transparency and be vindicated,” he argued.
The NDC has signalled its intent to protest at EC district offices nationwide should the Commission fail to address their concerns within the one-week deadline.
"The EC says they have corrected the errors but we are still finding more."
The Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is considering recalling Parliament to press the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct an audit of the voter’s register ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Dr. Forson insists that this audit is crucial to addressing irregularities that could compromise the credibility of the elections, emphasizing that it is essential to hold a free, fair, and transparent process. He made these remarks while addressing protesters during a nationwide demonstration organized by the NDC in Accra.
The protest sought to raise awareness of alleged issues with the voter’s register, with Dr. Ato Forson arguing that tampering with the register could undermine the integrity of the electoral process—something the NDC is determined to prevent.
“We believe that the voter’s register must be audited. The level of tampering we’ve observed so far makes it impossible to proceed without a proper review. This audit will help us understand the extent of the issue and fix the system,” he stated.
According to Dr. Forson, failure to audit the register would raise significant doubts about the legitimacy of the upcoming elections, potentially eroding public trust in the EC’s capacity to oversee a transparent electoral process.
In his own constituency, Dr. Forson revealed that about 3,000 names were added to the transfer register and instances of multiple registrations were discovered, resulting in the register being inflated by approximately 5,000 names. “This raises serious concerns, and we need Parliament to intervene,” he said.
The NDC leadership is determined to push for reforms within the EC to address these discrepancies well in advance of the elections. Dr. Forson emphasized that without resolving these issues now, the credibility of the 2024 elections could be in jeopardy.
The party believes that taking preemptive measures is essential to avoid potential disputes and to uphold the integrity of the democratic process.
A group known as Concerned Citizens of Ghana in the Diaspora has formally petitioned the European Union (EU) over concerns regarding the actions of theElectoral Commission of Ghana (EC),which they claim are contributing to rising tensions in the country.
The group highlighted issues surrounding the EC’s response to objections raised by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) about the Provisional Voter Register, including alleged illegal voter transfers and the EC’s refusal to allow an independent audit of the voter register, as key factors fuelling unrest.
In a statement, the diaspora group also expressed concern over the reluctance of certain political parties to endorse a peace pact ahead of the 2024 general elections.
“We the Concerned Citizens of Ghana in the Diaspora are alarmed by recent developments involving the Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) that have raised tensions in the country.
These concerns have been raised by the leading opposition party as well as some leading/founding members of the governing party. We itemise some of the concerns raised below:
“1. Irregularities with the voter’s register with reference to the transfer of voters.
a. The NDC claims that about 15,000 voters have been captured on the EC’s transfer list with no indication as to where they were transferred from.
b. At least one EC official has been cited for conducting illegal transfers, hence, the call for a forensic audit – EC has denied the request for an audit.
“2. Recent post-election violence in the just-ended primaries in the Walewale Constituency.
“3. Missing Biometric Verification Devices (BVD) and calls for an audit.
“4. Refusal of some political parties to sign the National Peace Pact which political parties are encouraged to sign as part of their commitment to ensure peace before, during, and after the December 7 elections.
“These concerns have necessitated a nationwide demonstration, which is expected to take place on September 17, 2024,” part of the petition reads.
The group is, therefore, calling on the EU to intervene in the happenings in Ghana before it turns into a political upheaval.
It asked the EC to conduct an investigation into the matter and engage the various stakeholders involved in the 2024 election to ensure that there is peace before, during, and after the 2024 election.
“Being cognisant of the political instability within theECOWAS blocand the potential of these tensions to jeopardise the country’s democratic gains if not addressed immediately and seriously, the Concerned Citizens of Ghana in the Diaspora are taking proactive measures to ensure that Ghana conducts free and fair elections and maintains the peace the country has enjoyed over the years.
“As such, we are calling on the European Union to shift its attention to the developments happening in Ghana and take proactive measures to engage the EC as well as the government to reassure Ghanaians of free and fair elections devoid of bloody confrontations.
We call on the EU to:
“1. Conduct an independent investigation into the allegations and concerns.
“2. Issue a statement to the EC and government regarding your findings.
“3. Engage political parties and the Peace Council to ensure peaceful elections,” the petition concluded.
Founder of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen, has urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to consider calls for a forensic audit of the voters’ register ahead of the December 2024 general elections.
Mr Kyerematen emphasized that addressing concerns raised by political parties, particularly the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is essential for ensuring the integrity and credibility of the election process.
Speaking during an interview on JoyNews on September 16, Kyerematen highlighted the importance of the EC’s role in conducting free and fair elections, noting that the trust of stakeholders and the public in the electoral system is critical.
“The Electoral Commission has the mandate to conduct free and fair elections, and if concerns are raised about the process, it’s their duty to clear any doubts in the minds of the people,” Mr Kyerematen said.
In response to the NDC’s request for a forensic audit of the electoral roll, Kyerematen pointed out that the party, as a major stakeholder, had identified specific discrepancies in the register. He insisted that the EC must demonstrate its commitment to running a transparent and credible election by addressing these issues head-on.
“For the sake of ensuring the integrity of the elections, the EC must respond to the specific cases that have been identified concerning irregularities in the voters’ register. This would only enhance the commission’s credibility,” he explained.
Mr Kyerematen further questioned the EC’s hesitation to conduct a forensic audit, stating that there should be no resistance to such a move, which could only strengthen the public’s confidence in the electoral process.
“Why resist? The EC has indicated they’ve responded to the comments, but we have to eliminate all reasonable doubt. There’s a need to have a credible voters’ register. So, if there’s still doubt associated with it, let’s allow an extensive, comprehensive audit, which can be done without any difficulty,” he added.
Although Kyerematen praised the EC’s overall track record in Africa, he stressed that maintaining their good reputation requires continuous efforts to ensure transparency. He underscored that the only way to confirm the accuracy and integrity of the voters’ register was through a thorough audit.
“The EC has to prove that the electoral register is clean, and it is only through an audit that this can happen,” Kyerematen concluded.
African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns, Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, has urged Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC) to take deliberate steps to build trust with all stakeholders ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Diplomatic Honours in Accra, Dr. Chambas emphasized that it is not too late for the EC to restore confidence in the electoral process.
He specifically recommended that the EC adopt measures that would enhance transparency, such as publishing polling station results on its website during elections. According to him, this step has been advocated by many stakeholders and would significantly boost the credibility of the process.
“It is not too late to work to win the trust and confidence of all parties and stakeholders in the electoral process. Specifically, ensuring the publication of polling station results on the website of the Electoral Commission is one measure that will greatly advance and enhance the credibility and transparency of the process, and this will sound like music to some of our partners here who have made this recommendation time and again,” Dr. Chambas noted.
The call for enhanced transparency comes at a time when Ghana’s opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is at odds with the EC over the compilation of the voters’ register for the 2024 elections.
The NDC claims that the register is riddled with anomalies, despite the EC’s assurances that concerns raised during the initial compilation process were addressed after the draft register was exhibited.
In response, the EC has invited the NDC to provide specific details of any remaining complaints for further resolution. However, the NDC has maintained its mistrust of the Commission, calling for a nationwide demonstration to demand a forensic audit of the register.
The EC, led by Deputy Chairman for Corporate Services Dr. Bossman Eric Asare, has reiterated its openness to resolving any issues, urging the NDC to engage in discussions rather than protests. Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsfile, Dr. Asare stressed the need for dialogue, inviting the NDC to meet with the EC, other political parties, and stakeholders to address the discrepancies.
“The Commission has so far addressed all discrepancies identified with the provisional voters register but will address any further discrepancies that the NDC would bring to the discussion table,” Dr. Asare assured.
Earlier, the EC also appealed directly to former President John Dramani Mahama, urging him to bring the NDC to the negotiation table. Deputy Chairman for Operations, Samuel Tettey, during a press conference on September 12, emphasized the importance of resolving issues through dialogue.
“The EC believes that the best way to ascertain the credibility and integrity of the 2024 Voters Register is the discussion table, not on the streets… We are confident that the former President will heed to our calls and do everything in his power to bring his party to the discussion table,” Mr. Tettey said.
Dr. Ibn Chambas, in his address, called on all Ghanaians to play their part in ensuring a peaceful and credible election. He urged President Akufo-Addo to ensure that no lives are lost during the election, referencing the violence that marred the 2020 elections.
“It is the shared responsibility of all Ghanaian citizens, all stakeholders, to deliver credible participatory, violent-free elections… We must not rest on our laurels until we have silenced the guns in Africa,” Dr. Chambas emphasized, appealing for peace and accountability from all sides.
Election 2024: It's not too late to work to win the trust of all parties and stakeholders in the electoral process – Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas to Electoral Commission.#ElectionHQpic.twitter.com/ygzh9BpBH3
Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr. Bossman Asare, has dismissed claims by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding unresolved discrepancies in the provisional voters register.
He accused the NDC of exaggerating issues that, according to him, have already been addressed by the EC.
Speaking during a Newsfile interview on Saturday, September 14, Dr. Asare argued that the NDC’s planned protest over the register’s alleged inaccuracies is unfounded. He emphasized that the concerns raised by the party have been resolved, and the voters register remains credible.
“We at the Electoral Commission think that the NDC leadership who have taken the route of demonstration is misinforming their people. They seem to be exaggerating problems in the register which are non-existent,” he stated.
Dr. Asare further assured the public, saying, “The Commission has made it very clear openly to the NDC, openly to the good people of Ghana, [and] international partners that we have a register that is robust, that is credible.”
The NDC’s concerns about the provisional voter’s register have stirred debate, with the party raising alarms over certain discrepancies.
However, Dr. Asare reiterated that the party is misleading its members by focusing on issues that, he claims, have already been resolved.
He also addressed concerns about the NDC’s trust in the EC, recalling that during the 2016 general elections, the party did not raise significant objections despite issues with the register at that time.
“Even in the 2016 register, there were more problems than what we are talking about now, but the NDC didn’t raise any serious issues then,” he said, pointing out the difference in the party’s stance now.
“The issues they are raising now, they are problems we have addressed.”
In a call for collaboration, Dr. Asare noted that the EC is open to further discussions with the NDC and other political parties to ensure a transparent and credible election. “We are inviting them to the discussion table,” he added, assuring that the EC remains committed to conducting peaceful and credible elections ahead of the December 7 general elections.
The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has rejected the nomination forms submitted by the Progressive People’s Party (PPP) after the party failed to meet the designated deadline.
The EC has firmly stated that forms submitted after 5 PM on September 13, will not be accepted, emphasizing that their premises are not intended for the completion of nomination forms.
Deputy Director in charge of Operations and acting on behalf of Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the EC, Samuel Tettey, conveyed this message during a press conference.
“We’re not expected to receive nominations after 5 PM. The premises of the EC are not where we complete forms. Candidates are expected to complete their nomination forms and file them within the specified time. We will receive the forms, but we are not going to accept them. I am acting on behalf of the Chairperson, who is the returning officer, so I’ll submit the report to the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission,” Mr Tettey said.
PPP made a last-minute attempt to submit their presidential candidate's forms, but the EC Deputy Chairperson in charge of operations, Samuel Tettey has stated that a decision on whether to accept or reject the nomination will be made later.#JoyNews#JoyNewsFocus#ElectionsHQpic.twitter.com/yQDBQTl1Su
The Electoral Commission (EC) has responded to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following the party’s calls for an independent forensic audit into the 2024 voters’ register.
The EC expressed surprise at the NDC’s recent interest in the register, citing the lack of similar concerns during the 2016 election period.
Speaking at a media briefing in Accra on Thursday, August 12, Deputy Commissioner of the Electoral Commission, Samuel Tettey, pointed out that the 2016 voters’ register included images of plants and animals representing voters, yet the NDC did not call for an audit at that time.
“Perhaps this is the first time the NDC has taken interest in the register. Otherwise, one would have expected them to call for such an audit of the 2016 register, which contained photos of plants and animals representing voters,” Mr. Tettey stated.
The Electoral Commission rejected claims that the voters’ register had ever undergone an independent audit in the past. Mr. Tettey emphasized, “It is important to note that, contrary to what is being alluded, since 1992, the voters register has never been audited.”
Regarding the NDC’s request for a forensic audit of the 2024 Provisional Voters Register, Mr. Tettey maintained that the Voters’ Register Exhibition Exercise conducted by the Commission is sufficient to identify and address any discrepancies. He explained that the Exhibition Exercise, which has been a part of the electoral process since 1992, ensures that errors are rectified in line with the legal framework outlined in the Constitutional Instrument on the Registration of Voters (C.I. 91, as amended by C.I. 126).
“The Voter Register Exhibition Exercise itself serves as an audit, allowing for the correction of discrepancies identified through our established procedures,” Mr. Tettey noted, stressing that this process is effective and well-established.
The NDC had raised five specific concerns about the Provisional Voters Register during a meeting on September 6, 2024, calling for both a forensic audit and a re-exhibition of the Register. However, the Electoral Commission has responded by asserting that their current methods are sufficient to address any issues, and any discrepancies flagged during the Exhibition are being dealt with promptly.
Mr. Tettey added, “The process we have in place is tried and tested. Our focus is on resolving issues through established channels rather than introducing unnecessary external audits.” He encouraged the NDC to collaborate by providing specific information on the discrepancies they have identified to facilitate a proper review.
While the NDC continues to push for further scrutiny of the 2024 voters’ register, the Electoral Commission remains firm in its position that the current procedures, including the Exhibition Exercise, are robust enough to ensure an accurate and transparent register for the upcoming elections.
"The voter's register exhibition itself is an audit. Perhaps this is the first time the NDC has taken an interest in the register. Otherwise one would have expected them to call for an audit of the 2016 register which contains photos of plants and Animals "- Deputy Ec Chair… pic.twitter.com/6QRzj3OeRm
Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC) has urged advised ex-president John Dramani Mahama to consider dialogues over street demonstartion in addressing concerns regarding alleged discrepancies in the provisional voters register.
The EC stressed that it is the best approach to resolving the party’s grievances and ensuring a fair electoral process.
During a press conference in Accra on Thursday, September 12, 2024, Deputy Chairman of Operations, Samuel Tettey, directly appealed to Mr. Mahama, stating, “The EC believes that the best way to ascertain the credibility and integrity of the 2024 Voters Register is at the discussion table, not on the streets. Taking to the streets will not ensure a credible register; it will only cause tensions and suspicions which are unwarranted.”
Mr. Tettey therefore called on “the former President, His Excellency John Mahama, an eminent and respected statesman of the Republic, to encourage and bring his party to the table… On our part, we assure the NDC of a transparent process that would demonstrate to them that all their concerns have been resolved.”
The Electoral Commission’s (EC) call for dialogue stems from its frustration over the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s failure to present proof of the alleged discrepancies it claims to have uncovered during the recent voters’ register exhibition. Despite a meeting on September 6, 2024, where the NDC outlined five concerns, the party has yet to submit the promised documents, leading to repeated but unanswered requests from the EC.
In response, the NDC has scheduled a nationwide demonstration for Tuesday, September 17, 2024, accusing the EC of ignoring its request for a forensic audit of the voters’ register. The EC, however, refuted allegations that 50,000 ghost names were added, assuring that any names of deceased persons would be removed once the necessary data is provided by the NDC.
“The Commission is fully committed to providing the country and all Political Parties with a robust and credible Voters Register that will guarantee free, fair, transparent, and credible General Elections in December 2024,” the EC reassured the public.
The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has urged media organizations to refrain from announcing the results of the 2024 general elections before the official declaration by the Electoral Commission (EC).
This caution was given by Albert Arhin, National Coordinator of CODEO, during an interview with Citi FM on Tuesday, September 10.
Mr Arhin stressed that the premature release of election results by media outlets could trigger confusion and possible unrest among the public.
He emphasized that while CODEO often receives preliminary results, they withhold this information to respect the official procedures set by the EC.
“It is not necessary. Let the EC come out to declare the results. Let me tell you, CODEO normally gets the results about two days before the EC comes out, but we never tell anybody,” Mr. Arhin stated.
He further explained that, through Parallel Vote Tabulation (PVT), CODEO can predict election outcomes but keeps this information confidential.
Mr Arhin also reminded the media of their responsibility in safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process. He pointed out that only the EC has the legal mandate to declare the results, and any violation of this could damage public trust in the election system.
While acknowledging the critical role the media plays in promoting democracy, Arhin underscored the need for patience, asking media houses to wait for the official announcement before broadcasting any results.
By adhering to these guidelines, CODEO hopes to ensure a smooth and credible electoral process, free of unnecessary tensions during the 2024 elections.
Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has called on party supporters to turn out in large numbers on September 17 to demonstrate at the offices of the Electoral Commission (EC) across the country.
This demonstration is aimed at pushing for an audit of the current voter register ahead of the December 7 general elections.
Speaking at a rally in Sampa, located in the Jaman North District of the Bono Region, Mahama emphasized the importance of ensuring a free, fair, and transparent election process. He expressed concerns about several irregularities in the voter register and stressed the need for the EC to address these issues.
“If we desire free, fair, and peaceful elections, then the Electoral Commission must up their game and do things right,” Mahama stated. He added that the EC should conduct a thorough audit of the voter register well in advance of the upcoming elections.
The demonstration, he explained, is a reminder to the EC to take immediate action. “So on the 17th of this month [September], the NDC is going to demonstrate in every town that has an EC office. Our chairman [Johnson Asiedu Nketiah] has announced it,” Mahama said.
Mahama urged NDC supporters to wear their party t-shirts and join the protest at EC offices, with the goal of pressuring the commission to ensure the credibility of the election process. “You go and demonstrate to the EC office so that we can put pressure on them to do their job and do what they have to do to ensure peaceful and transparent elections,” he added.
This call comes shortly after NDC Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, submitted John Mahama’s nomination forms to the Electoral Commission for the December 7 elections.
Mahama expressed his gratitude to party members who endorsed his forms and used the opportunity to remind the public of the significance of the upcoming elections. “If you vote well, it brings development and wellness. However, if you don’t vote well and someone who does not know governance leads the country, it brings hardship,” he warned.
Reflecting on the hardships faced by Ghanaians under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government over the past eight years, Mahama expressed hope that the December elections would bring about change. “Thanks to the 1992 constitution, we have another opportunity to vote for change and economic freedom,” he said.
He also appealed to the people of Sampa to vote for the NDC’s parliamentary candidate, Frederick Yaw Ahenkwa, to help reset the country and bring about more development. Promising to prioritize infrastructure, he assured the people, “I used your road, and when I win the elections, I will prioritize roads, especially the Berekum-Sampa road, to boost economic life in the area and beyond.”
Mahama is currently on a four-day tour of the Bono Region, during which he plans to visit 11 out of the 12 constituencies in the area.
Former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidoho, has criticized former President John Dramani Mahama for what he describes as a disregard for Ghana’s electoral process.
Mr Anyidoho expressed his disappointment on X, formerly known as Twitter, after Mahama failed to personally present his nomination papers for the 2024 presidential election.
In a strongly-worded post, Anyidoho stated, “JM has lost a big opportunity to prove that he is serious about winning the election on December 7th. By not going to present his documents personally to the EC, he has grossly disrespected the electoral process of Ghana.”
Mahama’s nomination papers were submitted on his behalf by National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, at the Electoral Commission’s headquarters on Monday, September 9, 2024. The former president was absent due to his nationwide tour ahead of the elections.
The #Mahama4Change2024 tour, which began in the Bono Region, has been a key part of Mahama’s campaign strategy. During the four-day tour, Mahama is expected to visit all 12 constituencies in the region, engage with traditional councils and religious leaders, and hold a youth forum at Sunyani Technical University. The tour also includes an interaction with the Bono Regional House of Chiefs.
Meanwhile, several other presidential candidates, including Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), filed their nomination forms on the same day. Dr. Bawumia was joined by his wife, Samira Bawumia, and his running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, in submitting his paperwork. Leading members of the NPP, including National Chairman Stephen Ntim and Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, were also present to show support.
Other candidates who filed their nomination forms on Monday include Dr. Hassan Ayariga of the All People’s Congress (APC), Samuel Apea-Danquah of Yellow Ghana, independent candidate George Twum Barima Adu, and businessman Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Cheddar.
JM has lost a big opportunity to prove that he is serious about winning the election on December 7th. By not going to present his documents personally to the EC, he has grossly disrespected the electoral process of Ghana 🇬🇭. pic.twitter.com/0e9RXJWitP
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced plans to hold a nationwide demonstration on September 17, 2024, to protest the Electoral Commission’s (EC) handling of discrepancies in the voter register.
This decision comes after the party identified significant anomalies in the voter register during the recent exhibition exercise.
NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah revealed the party’s plans after submitting the presidential nomination forms on behalf of John Mahama, stating that the protest will take place across all 16 regional capitals.
“On the 17th of this month [September], the NDC is embarking on a massive nationwide demonstration in all 16 regional capitals, descend on the electoral commission officers, and we in Accra will descend to the headquarters and present further petitions as to why we think that they should conduct themselves in a manner that will guarantee peaceful, free and fair election,” Asiedu Nketiah said.
NDC leaders and supporters will march to the EC’s regional offices, while the national executives will present a formal petition at the EC’s headquarters in Accra.
The NDC has expressed concerns about irregularities they identified in the voter register, which they believe could disenfranchise voters. Some of the key issues raised include:
Missing Names: The party found that the names of registered voters were missing from the list, potentially denying them their right to vote.
Misplaced on Lists: Qualified voters were wrongly placed on either the Exception List or the Multiple List, which could result in them being unable to vote on election day.
Disqualified Individuals: Despite being disqualified for multiple registrations or challenges, certain individuals were still included in the Main Provisional Voters Register (PVR).
Unauthorized Transfers: Some voters were transferred between polling stations without their knowledge, and old transfers that should have been resolved continued to appear.
Polling Station Changes: Voters were moved to different polling stations without their consent, creating confusion and potentially suppressing votes.
After these irregularities were flagged, the NDC requested a forensic audit of the voter register to address their concerns. However, the EC denied the request, prompting further dissatisfaction. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the NDC’s Director of Elections and IT, stated, “They [the EC] have not accepted the independent forensic audit expectedly.”
The party is now moving forward with what they describe as a “historic” demonstration to hold the EC accountable and to ensure a transparent and fair electoral process ahead of the 2024 elections.
Asiedu Nketiah emphasized that the NDC remains committed to ensuring that the electoral process is conducted in a manner that guarantees peaceful, free, and fair elections.
Attention!
The NDC will hold nationwide demonstration on Sept. 17 against Akufo-Addo’s Electoral Commission
Leader of The New Force, Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar, has filed his nomination to contest in the 2024 general elections at the Electoral Commission (EC) headquarters today.
He was received by the EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa. This was hour a few hours after the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, also filed his nomination to contest in the elections.
He was joined by running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the NPP’s National Chairman, General Secretary, Majority Leader in Parliament, and other key party leaders.
On her part, Jean Mensa received his forms and noted that it is the first time a Vice President has filed a nomination for the presidential elections.
New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has officially submitted his nomination forms to contest in the 2024 general elections at the Electoral Commission (EC) headquarters.
The Vice President was accompanied by his running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the NPP’s National Chairman, General Secretary, Majority Leader in Parliament, and other key party leaders.
Describing the moment as significant, Dr. Bawumia called it a historic opportunity in his political career. “All this is part of God’s plans and nothing happens just by chance. Personally, it’s a very historic opportunity to submit these forms for the first time as a presidential candidate,” he stated.
As Ghana prepares for the December 7 general elections, the Vice President urged the nation to seek divine blessings for a peaceful process.
“We should all pray for God’s blessings for our dear country, Ghana. As we embark on this process, which is an election and these are part of the processes towards the December 7 elections. We need God to continue to bless our country. What we are trying to do is to uplift the country. We don’t want to tear down the country. It is important our country is uplifted after the election,” he added.
The General Secretary of NPP led Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and the his able hardworking running mate, Fmr. Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh to file his nomination at the Electoral Commission Head office. #ItIsPossiblepic.twitter.com/iabRCO36W3
Dr. Bawumia also praised the conduct of politicians, emphasizing the need for peaceful engagement during the election period.
EC Chairperson Jean Mensa, who received the nomination forms, noted the historic nature of the event, highlighting that it was the first time a sitting Vice President had filed a nomination for the presidential elections.
Dr. Bawumia has five days to review his nomination forms and address any issues identified by the EC.
Ahead of the submission, NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong had announced that Dr. Bawumia would address party supporters and the public at the NPP headquarters after submitting his nomination.
Director of Elections and IT for theNational Democratic Congress (NDC),Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, says the Electoral Commission (EC) has not agreed to its demands to conduct a forensic audit of the voter register.
According to him, the EC appears unwilling to open its books to scrutiny by anyone, and they are therefore not surprised by the Commission’s stance.
Speaking to the press after the Inter-Party Advisory Committee on September 6, he said “They have not accepted the independent forensic audit expectedly.”
“It is not all doctors who readily refer, it is not all workers who readily refer when issues are above them, some of them wait until bridges collapse.
Some of them wait until patients are on the verge of dying before they push them. We would have loved that the Electoral Commission accepted this.”
Mr. Boamah stated that conducting a forensic audit would restore public confidence in the Electoral Commission’s (EC) ability to oversee transparent and credible elections.
On September 10, the Minority in Parliament expressed concerns about the voter register exhibition, claiming it had been manipulated.
They argued that the voter register contains numerous inconsistencies and issues, which theEC has already acknowledged.
As such, they cannot vouch for the integrity of the voter register, reiterating the stance of the opposition NDC for a forensic audit of the register.
As the race for Ghana’s 2024 presidential election intensifies, a notable 27 individuals have expressed their intentions to run as independent candidates.
According to a report from Graphic Online, these hopefuls have obtained access codes from theElectoral Commission (EC),allowing them to download and submit their nomination forms.
The inclusion of these independent candidates brings the total number of presidential aspirants to 39, with 12 registered political parties also joining the contest.
The political parties that have picked up nomination forms include major contenders such as the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and other parties like the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Progressive People’s Party (PPP), Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP), and All People’s Congress (APC).
Other political parties in the race are the People’s National Convention (PNC), the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), the Ghana Union Movement (GUM), the National Democratic Party (NDP), the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), and the Progressive Alliance for Ghana (PAG).
Among the independent candidates vying for the presidency are notable figures like George Twum-Barim-Adu, Samuel Apea-Danquah, Alan Kyerematen, Nana Kwame Bediako, and Jacob Osei Yeboah.
Others include Richard Sumah, Kofi Koranteng, Desmond Abrefa, Dr. Agnes Ayisha, Dr. Nii Amu Darko, Wilberforce Andrews, and Nana Stephens.
More candidates such as Rev. Samuel Worlanyo, T.K. Amenya, Robert Roy Reindorf, Paul Perkoh, Seth Ntim Agyarko, Stephen Atubiga, Janet Asana Nabla, and Sam Ankrah have also joined the race, alongside others like Nana Ohene Aggrey Bentsil Djan, Tom Asiseh, Kenneth Kwame Asamoah, Tawiah N. Hemans, Muhammad Abdullah, James Kwasi Oppong, and Isaac Wiafe Ofori.
TheEC hasannounced that presidential candidates are expected to submit their completed nomination forms at the Commission’s headquarters between September 9 and September 13, 2024.
The forms can be submitted in two daily sessions, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has declined the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) request for a live broadcast of its upcoming meeting with the Electoral Commission (EC) to discuss findings from the Provisional Voters Register (PVR).
The Commission explained that the discrepancies including missing names, misplaced voters, and duplicate images, which have been sighted by both parties are not new, hence there is no need for a broadcast.
“The Commission does not accept the proposal of a live broadcast of this meeting. Our team is ready to meet with your team on the agreed time,” the EC’s statement read in part.
The meeting, scheduled for today, September 6, 2024, aims to address NDC’s findings from the Provisional Voters Register (PVR) ahead of the December 7 general elections.
NDC General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, in a letter to the EC, emphasized that broadcasting the session would ensure transparency.
The request follows concerns about missing names in the register, which the NDC claims undermines the integrity of the electoral process.
The party highlighted these issues after analysing discrepancies between the PVR and the registers exhibited at polling stations.
The NDC’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, Dr. Tanko Rashid-Computer, has been critical of the EC’s reliability, calling for an external audit and a public apology. He accused the EC of presenting a “bloated” register, warning that it could affect the election’s credibility.
The EC has acknowledged errors in the register, particularly in the Ejumako-Enyan-Esiam constituency, attributing the mistake to the unintentional inclusion of voter transfer lists from previous years.
The NDC, however, has accused the EC of inflating the register in collaboration with the ruling NPP, alleging that over 3,000 voters had been improperly added.
Security Analyst George Doyen-Dosu has urged political parties and government officials to exercise caution in their choice of words and language during national engagements to avert a national catastrophe.
His warning comes in response to provocative statements from members of the rulingNew Patriotic Party (NPP)and retaliatory remarks from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP Bernard Boasiako, commonly known as Chairman Wontumi, during the official unveiling of Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) as the running mate of the party’s flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia at Jubilee Park in Kumasi in July of this year, boasted that the NPP had “one million ways” to retain power.
Adding to the controversy, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, who doubles as the Member of Parliament for Abetifi, declared at a unity walk organised by the NPP on Saturday, April 8, 2023, in Mpraeso, Eastern Region, that the NPP would “never hand over power to the NDC” and would “do whatever it takes to win the elections.”
These remarks have drawn sharp reactions from the NDC, with some members accusing the NPP of “beating war drums” and escalating political tensions in the gear-up to the 2024 polls.
Dosu, who is also the Executive Director of the Doyen Institute of Intelligence and Investigations, told The Independent Ghana that such extreme speech could radicalise segments of the public and lead to the formation of vigilante groups willing to use violence for political ends.
“Extreme speech can radicalise certain elements of the public, resulting in the formation of extremist groups willing to use violence to advance their political goals.
This could lead to the development of militias or vigilante groups, increased use of political thuggery, and an increased risk of targeted assassinations, kidnappings, or sabotage,” Dosu said.
He warned that such rhetoric could erode public trust in democratic institutions, including theElectoral Commission (EC).
“Statements signalling a refusal to hand over power or the threat of violence to ‘defend democracy’ can erode the confidence and authority of major democratic institutions, including the Electoral Commission, the judiciary, and law enforcement authorities.
This loss of trust can lead to widespread doubt about election results, fuelling conspiracy theories and protests, and potentially leading to a constitutional crisis if the conclusion is widely questioned,” he added.
Ghana, a symbol of democracy in West Africa with a history of peaceful power transitions since 1992, faces a crucial test as it prepares for the December elections.
Past elections have seen tensions and incidents of violence, highlighting the need for vigilance and commitment to democratic principles.
Electoral Commission (EC) has strongly rejected accusations of attempting to manipulate election results through errors in the voter registration process.
Dr. Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairperson of the EC, urged the public to ignore allegations that the Commission is skewing the voter register to benefit a particular political party.
His remarks come amid growing concerns from political parties, civil society organisations, and the public.
Dr. Asare emphasised the Commission’s commitment to transparency and openness in its electoral processes.
He stated, “On his part, the electoral processes put in place by the Commission is open to the general public, and any interested party citizen can, with no efforts, obtain relevant info on all aspects of the electoral process.”
He reassured the public that the EC “has nothing to hide.”
He also addressed misconceptions regarding the role of the EC Chairperson in maintaining peace and ensuring election outcomes.
“The suggestion that the peace and the outcome of the election are hinged on the chairperson of the EC is completely untrue,” Dr. Asare said.
The former president and NDC flagbearer, John Mahama, along with other NDC leaders such as Asiedu Nketia, Haruna Iddrisu, and Ofosu Ampofo, have consistently accused the EC of intending to rig the elections in favour of the NPP.
They have urged the Commission to avoid any actions that could be perceived as unfair.
In response,the EC has reiterated its commitment to conducting free and fair elections, stressing that all electoral processes are subject to scrutiny and oversight.
The Commission has also announced plans to enhance transparency by increasing public access to electoral information and engaging with stakeholders to address concerns.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has admitted to a significant error in compiling the provisional voters’ register for the 2024 elections, acknowledging that a technical glitch led to the inclusion of incorrect data.
During a press briefing on Monday, September 2, Dr. Bossman Asare, the Deputy Chairman of the EC in charge of Corporate Services, addressed the issue, explaining the root cause and the steps taken to rectify it.
Dr. Asare revealed that the provisional voter register shared with political parties included both a “transfers voters list” and an “absent voters list” for each polling station. The transfers list was meant to capture voters who had been moved from one polling station to another, while the absent voters list accounted for those who had either transferred their votes or were involved in special voting.
However, the EC encountered a technical issue during the preparation of the 2024 exhibition, which mistakenly incorporated all transfers made since 2020. This error resulted in a higher-than-expected number of voters being classified as transferred or absent, raising concerns among stakeholders about the accuracy of the register.
Dr. Asare assured the public that the EC has corrected this anomaly and will provide the amended transfer and absent voters lists to the political parties.
“The final voters’ register for the 2024 elections will be both robust and credible,” he stated, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to delivering a transparent electoral process.
This clarification comes in the wake of allegations from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam constituency of the Central Region. The NDC accused the EC of inflating the voters’ register in collaboration with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), claiming that over 3,000 names were added without proper authorization. Galahad Alex Andoh, the NDC’s Communications Officer in the constituency, voiced his party’s determination to resist any attempts at electoral manipulation.
The EC’s mishap also prompted a response from former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC’s presidential candidate, who called on the Commission to rectify any inaccuracies in the voter register to prevent confusion during the elections.
In light of these concerns, the EC has reaffirmed its commitment to making all necessary corrections to ensure the integrity of the final voters’ register.
A founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of the Electoral Commission’s (EC) actions, which he believes could destabilize Ghana’s democracy.
Speaking at an anti-corruption event at the GNAT Hall in Accra on Monday, September 2, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe expressed grave concerns about the EC’s conduct ahead of the 2024 general elections.
“I am saying at the moment, the greatest threat to our democracy is the Electoral Commission, and if we are not careful, they will lead this country into destruction, mark my words,” he cautioned.
He highlighted recent actions by the Commission that he perceives as threats to the nation’s democratic stability.
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe, who has witnessed and been involved in coup d’états in Ghana, emphasized the seriousness of his warning by referencing his past experiences.
“I’ve seen coup d’etat in this country, I have been part of coup d’etat in this country, and I know what I’m talking about. I spent almost five years of my life in prison,” he stated, highlighting the potential dangers of the current situation.
He pointed to specific incidents, including the alleged unauthorized transfers of voters from one constituency to another, as examples of the EC’s mishandling of the electoral process.
“How on earth can transfers be made from one particular constituency to another without the consent of others? These are facts,” he questioned.
This comes at a time when the Electoral Commission (EC) has admitted to a significant error in compiling the provisional voters’ register for the 2024 elections, acknowledging that a technical glitch led to the inclusion of incorrect data.
During a press briefing on Monday, September 2, Dr. Bossman Asare, the Deputy Chairman of the EC in charge of Corporate Services, addressed the issue, explaining the root cause and the steps taken to rectify it.
Dr. Asare revealed that the provisional voter register shared with political parties included both a “transfers voters list” and an “absent voters list” for each polling station. The transfers list was meant to capture voters who had been moved from one polling station to another, while the absent voters list accounted for those who had either transferred their votes or were involved in special voting.
However, the EC encountered a technical issue during the preparation of the 2024 exhibition, which mistakenly incorporated all transfers made since 2020. This error resulted in a higher-than-expected number of voters being classified as transferred or absent, raising concerns among stakeholders about the accuracy of the register.
Dr. Asare assured the public that the EC has corrected this anomaly and will provide the amended transfer and absent voters lists to the political parties.
A founding member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has expressed deep concern over the conduct of the Electoral Commission (EC).
Speaking at an anti-corruption event at the GNAT Hall in Accra on Monday, September 2, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe warned that the EC’s actions could undermine Ghana’s democratic integrity and potentially lead the country into destruction.
“I am saying at the moment, the greatest threat to our democracy is the Electoral Commission,” Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe declared. “If we are not careful, they will lead this country into ruin, mark my words.”
Addressing the audience, he cautioned that the EC’s conduct poses a severe risk to national stability. Drawing on his personal experiences, he added, “I’ve witnessed coup d’etats in this country, and I have been part of them. I spent almost five years in prison, and I know the gravity of what I’m talking about.”
Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe’s concerns are fueled by recent developments he views as mismanaged by the EC. He highlighted issues such as alleged unauthorized transfers of voters between constituencies, which he believes were conducted without proper consent and could disrupt the electoral process.
“How can transfers be made from one constituency to another without the necessary approvals? These are facts,” he questioned.
This criticism comes at a time when the EC is facing increased scrutiny from various stakeholders, including the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), as the country gears up for the 2024 general elections.
Following the Exhibition of the Provisional Voters Register, several comments have been made by sections of the society.
While some are borne out of genuine concerns, others are without basis and calculated to tarnish the image of the Electoral Commission. As a Commission, we deem it our duty to provide the public with the truth.
On Monday, 26th August, the Commission received a report from our Northern Regional Directorate that some voters from two Polling Stations in the Tamale South Constituency and one Polling Station in the Sagnerigu Constituency had been transferred to the Pusiga Constituency in the Upper East Region without their knowledge or consent.
The Commission would like to inform the General Public that it has concluded preliminary investigations into the alleged unauthorized voter transfers. The Commission would like to address the Public on this matter as follows:
Regulation 22, Sub-Regulation 1 of Constitutional Instrument (C.I.) 127 provides that, “A registered voter who, before an election, is resident for not less than twelve months in a constituency other than that in which the registered voter is registered, may apply to the returning officer of the constituency where the registered voter is resident for the name of the registered voter to be entered on the transferred voters list of a polling station in that constituency.”
Per the provision of the law, the Registered Voter must be physically present to request for the transfer of vote to another Polling Station. The transfer of vote can only be done at the District Offices and requires the presence of the Voter who must be verified using either his/her face or fingerprints.
The voters involved in the Tamale South and Sagnerigu Constituencies incident have denied taking part in a transfer exercise. What they have alluded to is that their Voter ID Cards were collected by one Haruna Muniru ostensibly for the processing of a loan. The said Haruna Muniru was in police custody last week. He is currently on bail and Police investigations continue.
Preliminary investigations by the Commission have revealed that voter transfers were indeed effected for Thirty-Eight (38) individuals using the credentials of an Electoral Commission Official. The records of those transfers are captured in the Voter Management System’s (VMS) audit logs. A look at the verification done during the transfer process shows that photos of the voters from their Voter ID Cards were used for facial verification and to effect the transfers.
Following this incident, the Commission has introduced a ‘liveliness check’ in the verification process, which is a feature designed to ensure that the biometric data being captured is from a live, present human being and not from a spoofed source, such as a photograph, which is what was done in this case. The ‘liveliness check’ has since been built into the system to prevent any such future occurrence.
The Commission is currently investigating. While the Commission does not have any evidence to believe that this occurrence is widespread, we have instituted investigations to ascertain if similar incidents occurred elsewhere beyond the reported case in the Tamale South and Sagnerigu Constituencies. Any such transfers will be reversed and the perpetrators of such acts shall be dealt with according to the law.
Following preliminary investigations, the Commission has suspended the Pusiga District Electoral Officer and has invited him to respond to the Commission’s findings. Once the investigations are concluded, the Commission will take the appropriate action and inform the Public accordingly.
The Commission would like to assure the Public that it will not shield any of its Officers (both permanent and temporary) found complicit in any electoral malpractices and will always allow such persons to face the full rigours of the law.
We wish to restate that the Provisional Voters Register is not the Final Voters Register. The central objective of the Exhibition Exercise is to correct any anomalies and issues with the Provisional Register before the Final Register is produced. This has been the practice since 1992.
The Commission wishes to assure the Public that, after the Exhibition Exercise, the Final Voters Register that will be produced will be robust and credible.
The Provisional Voters Register that was prepared for the just-ended Exhibition Exercise and also provided to all political parties has a Transferred Voters List and an Absent Voters List for each Polling Station. The Absent Voters List should contain a list of all voters that have been transferred out of a particular Polling Station within the period that the Electoral Commission opened up the register for transfers and special voting.
The Absent Voters List should contain only voters who have transferred their votes and those partaking in special voting. The Transferred Voters List conversely contains all voters who have been transferred to the Polling Station within that period.
In the preparations towards the 2024 Exhibition Exercise, the Absent Voters List and the Transferred Voters List inadvertently included all transfers that had been done since 2020 when this Register was first prepared. This has resulted in a higher-than-expected number of Absent and Transferred Voters.
This understandably may have caused some anxiety to our stakeholders, as exemplified by the press conference addressed by the NDC in the Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam Constituency of the Central Region. The Commission has corrected this anomaly and will share with all the Political Parties the corrected Absent and Transferred Voters List for each Polling Station that contains only those applicants who successfully applied for transfers or special voting for the 2024 General Elections.
It is also absolutely untrue that the Commission has added names to the Voters Register in a bid to rig the elections for a particular party. Those allegations are without merit and should be disregarded by the Public. The EC has no intention of bloating the register to give any political party advantage over the other.
As explained earlier, the cumulative transfer data for 2020, 2023, and 2024 were inadvertently summed up in the registers provided to the Political Parties. This has been corrected, and the revised register will be provided after all corrections have been made. The revised transfer list will be shared with the parties.
It is well known fact that Ghana has one of the most transparent and inclusive electoral processes in Africa. From registration to the declaration of results all our processes are transparent, inclusive and open to the Political Parties and the citizenry. Nothing is hidden. There are no secrets. Any interested party or citizen can with no effort obtain relevant information on all aspects of the electoral process. Therefore the suggestion that the peace and the outcome of the election is hinged on the Chairperson of the EC is untrue. We urge the public to ignore statements even from prominent citizens that suggest that achieving peaceful elections in 2024 is somehow in the bosom of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.
The Commission has nothing to hide. The Provisional Voters Register is a public document on display and is available online for voters to access in order to verify their details. This is not a secret document. At the end of the day, the Final Register will be made available to all the Political Parties, as per the law and normal practice.
The preparation of the Register is a human endeavour. There are bound to be mistakes. This is not the first time the Commission has recorded mistakes during registration of voters and compilation of the Voters Register. This has been the case since 1992. The issues range from missing names, swapped photos and gender, wrong additions or omitted names, et cetera. This is not new.
The Exhibition of the Provisional Voters Register, as designed by law, is meant to correct mistakes. The law provides for inclusion of missing names, removal of names that should not be on the register after due process, removal of names that should not be on the Exclusions List after due process, correction of gender, proper placement of voters in their Polling Stations, et cetera. This is exactly what the Commission is doing, as mandated by law.
Since 2020, this Commission has made painstaking efforts to clean the Register using a four-pronged approach: through District Electoral Officers, Exhibition Officers, Voters who go to check their details at Exhibition Centres and IT Staff. This was not the case before 2020 and this has ensured a credible Register that reflects those who qualify to be on it, while no qualified Voter is left out.
The Public may recall that in 2020 the same negative propaganda was launched about the Register during Exhibition. The Commission used the issues that came up during the 2020 Exhibition to clean the Register to ensure it was credible. As a result, there was not a single complaint that came through about the Register during and after the 2020 Elections. At the end of the day, the 2020 Elections were rated very highly by citizens as well as local and international election observers.
We call upon the Public to reject statements that the Register is not fit for the 2024 Elections or that it is incurably defective. The Register is robust and credible. At the end of the day, the Final Certified Register will reflect corrections of all identified errors.
Who gives out a document and make it openly accessible to all if the intention is to add on illegal persons? It is important to note that the Political Parties have copies of the 2020 Register, 2023 Register, records of the daily registration reports from the 2024 Limited Voters Registration and Mop-Up Registration Exercises. This is a transparent and inclusive process that is not exclusive to the EC. Therefore, unless they can show any proof, those alleging that the Commission is trying to cook data should be ignored.
The Commission reassures the Public and its stakeholders that the anomalies detected through the Exhibition Exercise and their correction do not in any way affect the validity of the Voters Register and the ability of valid voters to vote on Election Day.
As a Commission we continue to demonstrate and reflect the values of transparency, integrity and fairness in all our operations. We are fully mindful that the Voters Register is the bedrock and foundation of an Election.
We are well aware that a credible Voters Register is sine qua non for a transparent, peaceful and fair election. The Commission is committed to conducting and delivering free, fair, transparent, peaceful, credible, and inclusive Elections in December 2024. We entreat the General Public to support the Commission for successful General Elections in 2024.
We thank you for your attention.
Electoral Commission: Transparency and Accountability in Motion
Thank you.
Source: Electoral Commission
DISCLAIMER: Independentghana.com will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author’s, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana
The Electoral Commission (EC) has assured the public that the final voters’ register for the 2024 elections will be both robust and credible, following the correction of errors identified during the recent exhibition exercise.
Dr. Bossman Asare, the Deputy Chairman of the EC in charge of Corporate Services, provided this assurance during a press briefing on Monday, September 2.
Dr. Asare explained that the provisional voter register, which was prepared for the exhibition and shared with political parties, included a “transfers voters list” and an “absent voters list” for each polling station.
The transfers list comprises voters who have been transferred out of a particular polling station, while the absent voters list includes those who have transferred their votes and those participating in special voting.
However, during the preparation for the 2024 exhibition, a technical issue caused the inclusion of all transfers made since 2020, leading to a higher-than-expected number of absent and transferred voters. Dr. Asare emphasized that the EC has now corrected this anomaly and will distribute the amended transfer and absent voters lists to the political parties.
This clarification from the EC comes in response to allegations from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam constituency of the Central Region.
The NDC accused the EC of unlawfully inflating the voters’ register in collaboration with the New Patriotic Party (NPP). According to Galahad Alex Andoh, the NDC’s Communications Officer in the constituency, over 3,000 names were allegedly added to the voters’ register without authorization.
Mr Andoh further stated that the NDC would resist any attempts by the EC to manipulate the upcoming elections and would take necessary actions to prevent electoral fraud. The EC, however, has stood by the integrity of the voter register, reiterating its commitment to delivering a credible and accurate final list.
The EC released the provisional voter register to political parties on August 19, following demands for timely access for review. Since then, the NDC has raised concerns about discrepancies in the document, including missing names and incorrect placements of qualified voters. The party has requested an emergency meeting with the EC to address these issues.
Former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC’s presidential candidate, has also urged the EC to rectify any inaccuracies in the voter register to avoid confusion during the elections. The EC has responded by affirming that all necessary corrections will be made, ensuring that the final voter register reflects the true will of the electorate.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has suspended the Pusiga District Director over alleged involvement in the illegal transfer of voters without their knowledge.
Deputy Chairman of Operations at the EC, Samuel Tettey, confirmed the suspension, highlighting that the district director is considered the main suspect in this case. The EC has launched an investigation into the matter.
Tettey explained that voter transfers typically require the individual’s presence at the district office, where their biometrics are taken and a new voter ID card reflecting their new polling station is issued. However, in the Pusiga case, voters reported that they were unaware of the transfers, yet their names appeared on the Pusiga constituency register.
In response, the EC has established a committee to investigate the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that the photographs on the voter ID cards of the affected individuals were used to facilitate the transfers without the voters’ consent. Tettey assured that any EC officials found to have participated in the illegal transfers would be dismissed.
The incident was discussed during the 2nd Speaker’s Seminal Lecture held in Tamale, where Tettey also addressed the commission’s preparedness for the upcoming December elections.
The lecture, themed “Working Together, Rebuilding Trust for Free, Fair, Credible and Peaceful Elections: The Role of Stakeholders,” featured Security Consultant Professor Kwesi Aning and Imani Africa’s Senior Vice President, Kofi Bentil, as key speakers.
Both speakers emphasized the importance of collaboration among election stakeholders to ensure credible elections. Mr Bentil, in particular, criticized the EC’s perceived autocratic approach in recent years and urged the commission to engage more with stakeholders.
In response, Tettey stated that the EC remains open to consultations and welcomes recommendations that would contribute to successful elections. He reassured the public that the EC is committed to conducting the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections in a manner that reflects the will of the Ghanaian people.
Dr. Michael Abu Sakara Foster, a member of the Alliance for Revolutionary Change (ARC), has expressed serious concerns over the inability of independent presidential candidates to access the 2024 voter register.
He argues that the current situation, where the Electoral Commission (EC) has provided the provisional voter register exclusively to political parties, unfairly sidelines independent aspirants in the lead-up to the general elections.
The EC had earlier released the provisional voter register to political parties on August 19, following pressure from various political actors who demanded timely access for review. However, Dr. Abu Sakara, in an interview on JoyNews, described it as “unfortunate” that independent candidates have been excluded from this crucial process.
According to Dr. Abu Sakara, it is essential for the electoral field to be levelled, ensuring that all candidates, whether independent or representing political parties, have equal access to critical electoral information. He called on the EC to rectify this imbalance by providing the voter register to independent candidates by Monday, September 2.
“Everybody should have the same opportunity for slotting in the ballot box,” Dr. Abu Sakara emphasized. He pointed out the growing public distrust in the bipartisan system, evidenced by the increasing number of independent candidates. “The Electoral Commission being the referee should ensure that it adapts its processes to give all the contestants a fair chance,” he added.
Since the provisional voter register was made available to political parties, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has flagged several “very serious discrepancies” in the document, including missing names, incorrect placements of qualified voters on exception lists, and instances of disqualified voters appearing on the main register.
These concerns have led the NDC to request an emergency meeting with the EC, although the Commission has maintained that the voter register is both robust and credible.
Former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC’s presidential candidate, has also expressed caution, urging the EC to address any inaccuracies to avoid confusion during the elections.
In light of these issues, Dr. Abu Sakara, who has formed an alliance with independent presidential hopeful Alan Kyerematen, leader of the Movement For Change, insists that independent candidates must be given the same access to the voter register.
This, he argues, is essential to ensuring that all candidates can fairly participate in the upcoming elections without any bias or undue advantage for any particular group.
The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has ramped up its preparations for the upcoming general elections, with Deputy Chairman Dr. Bossman Asare announcing that the commission has recruited nearly 200,000 individuals to staff over 40,000 polling stations nationwide.
In an interview on JoyNews’ AM Show on August 30, Dr. Asare assured the public that the EC is fully prepared to conduct transparent, free, and fair elections.
“As we speak, we just completed the exhibition of the voter’s register, and when we finished that exercise, the onus is now on the Commission to ensure the finalisation of the voter’s register,” he stated.
The EC has taken significant steps to ensure that all logistical and administrative measures are in place for the smooth execution of the electoral process.
Dr. Asare highlighted the scale of the operation, noting that, “We have also recruited almost 200,000 individuals who are going to work with us at all the various polling stations; almost 40,653 polling stations.”
The electoral timeline is well-defined, with candidates expected to file their nominations between September 9 and September 13, 2024. Following the submission of nominations, the EC will proceed to print the notice of poll, listing the candidates for both the parliamentary and presidential elections across all 276 constituencies.
“After which we are going to print the ballot papers we are going to use for the elections. So from the perspective and the standpoint of the Electoral Commission, we are fully ready for a successful, peaceful, transparent, and credible general election,” Dr. Asare added.
A prominent advocate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), known as Mr. Beautiful, has leveled serious accusations against Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC).
In a recent broadcast on Cape Coast’s Property FM, Mr. Beautiful claimed that the EC is systematically removing the names of registered voters from the electoral rolls in NDC strongholds, with the intent to disenfranchise these voters.
He warned, “If people don’t want there to be bloodshed on the day of the elections, then the Electoral Commission should be cautioned to do everything properly.
Because right now, they have started deleting the names of registered voters in the strongholds of the NDC from the voters’ register to disenfranchise them,” he alleged in the interview.
“They are just deleting people’s names from the register, and if this is what they want to bring, then every Ghanaian should go and look for old pestles used for pounding fufu.
Ghanaians who are craving for change should go and find old pestles and take them to the polling station so that any EC officer who tries to cheat on us, use it to damage them,” he justified.
In a Facebook post, Dr. Boamah criticized the current register as being “unfit for purpose” and called for either a forensic audit or a comprehensive parliamentary investigation to address what he describes as “fundamentally flawed” issues.
He pointed out that the EC did not provide the NDC with the voters’ register in a timely manner before the exhibition period, suggesting that this delay was intentional.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Boamah commended the NDC’s meticulous review process during the exhibition, which has uncovered numerous problems with the register that could threaten the integrity of the 2024 elections if left unresolved.
“The register compiled by the EC is unfit for purpose.
Without a forensic audit or thorough parliamentary investigation of the EC’s voter register, the register will remain incurably defective,” he stated.
“Forget about adjudication! It’s obvious the register has deliberately been tampered with!”
Key Anomalies Uncovered Dr. Omane Boamah detailed several anomalies found during the exercise, which he believes point to a flawed electoral process. These anomalies include:
Missing Names: Registered voters whose names are absent from the voters’ register. Misplaced Qualified Voters: Individuals who are qualified to vote but have been wrongly placed on the Exception List or the Multiple List. Unremoved Disqualified Voters: Persons who were disqualified due to multiple registrations or successful challenges but remain on the Main Provisional Voters Register (PVR). Unauthorised Transfers: People who have been transferred without their knowledge, in addition to old transfers still appearing on the register. Polling Station Mismatches: Voters who have been moved from one polling station to another without their knowledge. Dr. Omane Boamah also criticised the “awkward process” that allowed voters to apply for proxy voting earlier this year without verifying their biometrics.
Calls for Action The NDC’s Director of Elections has called for an immediate investigation by Ghana’s Parliament into the EC’s handling of the voters’ register.
He stressed that if Parliament fails to act, both Ghanaians and the international community must pressure the EC to allow a forensic audit of its system, including the register.
“As contained in the uploaded petition, the Parliament of Ghana must investigate the Electoral Commission.
“If Parliament fails, Ghanaians, together with the international community, must exert enough pressure on the EC to permit a forensic audit of their system, including the register,” he emphasised.
NDC’s Director of Elections, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has raised alarms over unresolved issues concerning the Electoral Commission’s (EC) management of voter registration and verification equipment.
He emphasised that the theft of Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) laptops—captured by CCTV at the EC headquarters—has yet to be addressed. In addition, there are ongoing concerns about missing or stolen Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs).
Dr. Omane Boamah also suggested that the NDC is planning a series of public forums and protests aimed at demanding transparency and accountability from the Electoral Commission.
These actions are part of the party’s broader effort to address and resolve these critical issues.
As Ghana prepares for the December 2024 elections, the NDC’s proactive stance underscores growing tensions and scrutiny surrounding the electoral process, with both political parties and the general public closely monitoring the EC’s actions.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has called for an emergency meeting with the Electoral Commission (EC) to address critical concerns over discrepancies found in the ongoing 2024 voter exhibition exercise.
In a letter signed by NDC General Secretary Fifi Kwetey, the party highlighted “very serious discrepancies” in the provisional voter register, which they believe require immediate attention to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
The 2024 voter exhibition exercise, which began on Tuesday, August 20, and is scheduled to conclude on Tuesday, August 27, is a critical step in preparing the final voter register for the upcoming general elections.
As part of this process, political parties and stakeholders are granted access to the provisional voter register to review and address any issues before the final version is produced.
The opposition party is concerned that without swift intervention, these inconsistencies could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
The EC had earlier announced the release of the 2024 provisional voter register to political parties on August 19, following mounting pressure from various political actors and stakeholders who had insisted on timely access to the document for review.
The exercise is intended to provide an opportunity for corrections, such as name spelling, omissions, and other potential errors before the final voter register is produced.
