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Tag: EC

  • EC assures that stolen BVD will not compromise the integrity of the 2024 elections

    EC assures that stolen BVD will not compromise the integrity of the 2024 elections

    Electoral Commission (EC) has addressed concerns over the recent theft of a biometric verification device (BVD) and reassured the public about the security of the upcoming 2024 elections.

    Following the arrest of an individual in Nsawam on Friday, August 23, who was found with a stolen BVD, the EC issued a statement on Saturday, August 24.

    Samuel Tettey, the Commission’s Deputy Chairman of Operations, clarified that while the device is important for voter identification, it lacks the capability to undermine the election process.

    Tettey emphasized that BVDs are solely used for confirming voter identities and do not have any functions that could alter or disrupt the election’s integrity.

    The EC’s statement indicated that though one needs an activation code and other security clearance to fully utilise a BVD, it is conducting its “own internal investigations and will collaborate with the police to bring this matter to its logical conclusion.”

    Below is the EC’s full statement.

    RE: MAN ARRESTED IN NSAWAM WITH A BIOMETRIC VERIFICATION DEVICE (BVD)

    The attention of the Electoral Commission has been drawn to an incident in Nsawam in which a man was arrested on Friday, 23rd August, 2024 in possession of a Biometric Verification Device (BVD). The Commission takes this incident of an unauthorised person in possession of a BVD very seriously.

    The Commission would like to assure the General Public and all Stakeholders that a stolen BVD cannot jeopardise the integrity of the 2024 Elections.

    We are conducting our own internal investigations and will collaborate with the Police to bring this matter to its logical conclusion.

    In the meantime, the Commission would like to address the General Public on this matter as follows:

    The Public may recall that following the theft of five (5) Laptops which formed part of Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) Kits from our stores in April 2024, as well as the vandalization of five (5) BVDs and theft of two (2) BVDs from Tarkwa Nsuaem District and North Tongu District respectively during the December 2023 District Level Elections (DLEs), the Commission explained that a BVD in the hands of an unauthorised person cannot be used to compromise an election. It does not affect the integrity of an election. It is nothing more than an off-the-shelf device and cannot be used to compromise an election, without the necessary technical and security protocols.


    The Electoral Commission undertakes a deliberate process of preparing a Biometric Verification Device (BVD) for any election that ensures that ONLY BVDs that are prepared for a particular election can be used for that election. This process is robust and is not vulnerable to manipulation. The possession of a BVD that has not gone through this rigorous process that is yet to happen for the 2024 Elections does not affect the integrity of the Elections.

    The voter verification application is designed such that it only works with data that is prepared, audited, encrypted, and signed by a Secure Process. Access to this process is highly restricted. Without access to this Secure Process, Voter Data cannot be generated to work with the BVD.

    The Data that is loaded onto the BVDs are set to be activated for a particular Election Day. A stolen BVD therefore cannot work in the December 2024 Elections.
    The BVD, as part of its Start-Up Process, checks for the integrity of the Data that is loaded onto it. If the Voter Data on the BVD has been altered in any way, the StartUp Process is halted and the BVD will not work.


    Activation of the BVDs involves the use of Activation Codes that can only be downloaded from the EC’s Secure System. This system is restricted to Election Officials with the right Access Credentials. A BVD without its Activation Code cannot be used for the verification of Voters.


    The Data that is loaded onto the BVD must conform with the details of Voters on the Voters Register for each Polling Station. This data is not static and changes with every Election Cycle. Since the Voters Register for various Polling Stations for the 2024 Elections will be different from previous Elections, any data on a BVD that was activated for a previous Election will not conform with the Voters Register at the particular Polling Station on December 7, 2024.


    BVDs are used ONLY to verify voters. They are not used to vote.
    Political Party Agents observe the packing of election materials, including BVDS. They record the Serial Numbers of BVDs that are deployed at each Polling Station.


    Additionally, the Serial Numbers of the BVDs that are used on Election Day are recorded on the Statement of Poll (Pink Sheet) for each Polling Station. This provides further evidence as to which specific BVDs were used to verify Voters at each Polling Station.


    The Commission urges the Police to do everything in their power to unravel the circumstances surrounding the BVD that was found in the possession of the person arrested on Friday. The Commission stands in readiness to work with the Police in its investigations.

  • Police arrest man for possession of device suspected to be EC’s

    Police arrest man for possession of device suspected to be EC’s

    The Ghana Police Service has arrested a man identified as Yaw Koranteng in Nsawam, located in the Eastern Region, for allegedly possessing a device suspected to belong to the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana.

    Mr Koranteng is currently in police custody, assisting authorities with their ongoing investigations, according to the Police.

    The arrest came to light following a press release issued on August 23, 2024, detailing the circumstances surrounding the situation.

    The police, after apprehending the suspect, informed the Electoral Commission of the incident and invited them to confirm whether the device in question is indeed their property.

    In their statement, the police expressed gratitude for the public’s role in assisting with the arrest.

    “As the investigation into this incident continues, we would like to take this opportunity to thank all stakeholders for their continuous support to ensure security, law and order during this election period and beyond,” the police said.

  • Don’t be in a hurry to declare results, allow EC to do her job – Peace Council to the media

    Don’t be in a hurry to declare results, allow EC to do her job – Peace Council to the media

    The National Peace Council (NPC) has advised the media against calling results of the 2024 election before official declaration is made by the Electoral Commission (EC). 

    According to the council, the authority to declare who wins an election has only been accorded to the Electoral Commission by law.

    Thus, the media should consider it an unlawful act if they go ahead of the EC to make declarations.

    “Don’t be in a hurry to declare results, the results are declared by the Electoral Commission. No one can go ahead and declare election results because by law, no radio or TV station is entitled to that. It’s the preserve of the Electoral Commissioner for the presidential and then the Returning Officers in the constituencies for the parliamentary,” Chairman of the Peace Council, Reverend Dr Ernest Adu-Gyamfi, stated in an interview with the media.

    He added that the council is working tirelessly to ensure peaceful polls come December as well as protect the country’s democracy. 

    As part of their efforts in this regard, Reverend Dr Ernest Adu-Gyamfi explained that explained that the council had embarked on a number of activities since 2020, by engaging various stakeholders, including leadership of the political parties and state institutions, such as the EC, security agencies and the court, all geared towards a peaceful poll this year and ensure that the country’s democracy was sustained.  

    The chairman of the council further revealed that the council had set up a Political Party Trust Building Platform to promote dialogue and consensus building among the political parties and institutions of state to manage political tensions and violence ahead of election.

    “The Peace Council has set up the political party code of conduct committee to monitor the activities of the parties,” he said. 

    This, he said, would “free the Council” and enable it to give more attention to the over 700 cases it was currently handling

  • Dafeamekpor questions EC on 50p fee for access to Voter Register

    Dafeamekpor questions EC on 50p fee for access to Voter Register

    South Dayi MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor has expressed concerns about the GH₵0.50 fee imposed on voters checking their details through the Electoral Commission’s (EC) new shortcode.

    The EC has launched the shortcode *71151# as a new method for voters to easily verify their information, starting from August 20, 2024.

    However, Mr. Dafeamekpor took to X to question the rationale behind the fee and to inquire about the destination of the funds collected.

    The MP pointed out that Parliament has already approved the budget for this exercise.

    “Why is the Electoral Commission levying a fee of GH₵0.50 on every registered voter before they can check their name in the provisional register using the shortcode 71151#? Who is getting these monies?” he asked.

    He contended that citizens should not have to pay extra fees to confirm their names on the voter register, regardless of whether the verification is done electronically.

    Read post below:

  • Voter exhibition exercise begins today – EC announces

    Voter exhibition exercise begins today – EC announces

    The Electoral Commission (EC) will begin its nationwide voter exhibition exercise today, August 20, which will continue until August 27.

    Dr. Bossman Asare, the Deputy Chairman of the EC for Corporate Services, stated that this exercise is designed to assist voters in identifying their designated polling stations.

    During a press conference on Monday, August 19, Dr. Bossman Asare explained that registered voters will have the opportunity to request the addition of missing names, challenge the inclusion of certain names in the voter register, and request the removal of names of deceased individuals, among other activities, throughout the exercise.

    “The Commission again, urged the general public, especially, registered voters to show interest in the voter exhibition exercise to assist the Commission in updating and producing a credible voter register for the 2024 general elections.

    “The exhibition exercise also provides an avenue for qualified citizens to object to the names of minors, and foreigners. By minors, we mean those who are not 18 years old. In addition, qualified applicants can object to the names of persons who are not residents in the electoral areas where they registered.”

    The Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, noted that police officers will be deployed to ensure that order prevails at the various voter exhibition centres.

    “We urge the public to patronise the exercise. Go there if you are very concerned and if there is any security concern, speak to our officers on the ground and we will deal with it humanly in a way that will satisfy everybody.”

  • Provisional voters register ready for pick up – EC to political parties 

    Provisional voters register ready for pick up – EC to political parties 

    Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has denied allegations that it has withheld the voters’ register from political parties.

    During a press conference on Monday, August 19, 2024, Deputy Electoral Commissioner Dr. Bossman Asare confirmed that the political parties have already received a copy of the voters’ register ahead of the voter exhibition exercise set to begin on August 20, 2024.

    He also emphasized that the commission remains within its scheduled timeline for distributing the register, according to citinewsroom.com.

    “We have heard in sections of the media that the commission has not given the provisional voter register to the political parties after informing the parties to bring their external drives.

    We want to place on record that, per Regulation 22 of CI 31 as amended by CI 126, the commission is required to give the provisional register to the political parties not later than three months from the end of the registration period.

    “As you may be aware, the limited registration ended on May 29, 2024, and the mop-up registration ended on August 3, 2023.”

    Dr. Asare clarified that the NDC had collected its external drive containing copies of the register.

    “On the basis of the limited registration, the commission has until the end of August 2024 to give the provisional register of the political parties. We wish to state that the external drives containing the provisional voters register are available for pickup.

    However, we can say from the records that the NDC has collected its external drive. The other parties have also collected,” he stated.

    The statement of the EC comes in the wake of pressure mounted by political parties for the release of the voters register ahead of the voter’s exhibition exercise on Tuesday, August 20, 2024.

  • We have provided 2024 provisional voter register to NDC, others – EC

    We have provided 2024 provisional voter register to NDC, others – EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the 2024 provisional voter register has been officially released to political parties ahead of the upcoming voter register exhibition.

    The exercise is set to begin on Tuesday, August 20, and will run through August 27, 2024.

    This development comes after mounting pressure from political parties and stakeholders, who demanded access to the provisional register for review.

    Addressing the issue at a press conference on Monday, Deputy Electoral Commissioner Dr. Bossman Asare clarified that the EC remains within its stipulated timeline for providing the provisional register.

    “We’ve seen media reports claiming the Commission has yet to provide the provisional voter register to political parties after requesting their external drives. However, under Regulation 22 of CI 31, as amended by CI 126, the Commission has until three months from the end of registration to deliver the provisional register,” Dr. Asare explained.

    He added, “With limited registration concluding on May 29, 2024, and the mop-up ending on August 3, 2024, we have until the end of August to complete this process. The external drives with the provisional register are now available for pickup, and we confirm that the NDC has collected theirs, alongside other parties.”

    Dr. Asare also reiterated that the voter register exhibition would begin as planned on August 20 and conclude on August 27, 2024, ensuring all parties are prepared for the upcoming elections.

  • EC begins nationwide voters’ exhibition on Tuesday

    EC begins nationwide voters’ exhibition on Tuesday

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the nationwide voters’ exhibition exercise will commence on August 20 and run until August 27.

    The exercise is aimed at helping voters locate their designated polling stations ahead of the December 7 election, ensuring a smoother and more efficient voting process.

    Speaking at a press briefing on August 19, Dr. Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairman of the EC in charge of Corporate Services, explained that the exercise allows registered voters to verify their details and request corrections where necessary.

    This includes the inclusion of omitted names, removal of deceased voters, correction of name spellings, and amendments to other registration details.

    Dr. Asare emphasized the importance of the exhibition, particularly for those who registered during the 2024 limited registration exercise and the recent mop-up exercise, urging all registered voters to visit their exhibition centers to ensure they are assigned to the correct polling stations.

    He added that this step is essential for ensuring a smooth election process and encouraged all voters to take part in the exercise to avoid issues on election day.

  • Election 2024: Cooperate with us, we’ll soon present a credible voter register – EC to NDC

    Election 2024: Cooperate with us, we’ll soon present a credible voter register – EC to NDC

    Electoral Commission (EC) has assured that it will conduct a comprehensive voter exhibition exercise to ensure that political parties have access to a reliable voter register for the upcoming December elections.

    This assurance comes after the National Democratic Congress (NDC) urged the EC to release the provisional voter register for the December 7 general elections ahead of the exhibition.

    NDC’s Director of Elections, Dr. Boamah, took to Facebook to criticize the EC for the delay, attributing it to what he described as incompetence and a deliberate attempt to offer a subpar register to political parties.

    Dr. Boamah warned that this delay has raised significant concerns among the NDC and other stakeholders, suggesting that the EC’s approach, particularly its IT Department, could lead to chaos in Ghana if not promptly addressed.

    In response,the EC’s Director of Training, Dr. Serebuor Quaicoe, dismissed these claims during an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News.

    He urged the NDC and other stakeholders to cooperate with the commission throughout the exhibition process to address any issues.

    Dr. Quaicoe assured that the final voter register, following the exhibition exercise, will be of high quality and meet the expectations of all political parties.

    “Why would we fight the same people who are going to help us do the work? We all know the quantum of work to be done…

    So, they should understand it and once we give it to them, they and the voters and everybody will help to contribute and by the time we finish the eight-day exhibition, we will identify all the challenges and rectify them.”

    “They should all expect that when everything is done we will give them the final register. So, we will do good work and give them the final register which will be a quality register,” he stated.

  • Stop calling us “smaller parties”, we pay the same filing fee as NPP, NDC – Nana Jantuah to EC

    Stop calling us “smaller parties”, we pay the same filing fee as NPP, NDC – Nana Jantuah to EC

    Former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Nana Yaa Jantuah, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to reconsider labelling certain political parties as “smaller” when they all pay the same filing fees as the larger ones like the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Madam Jantuah argued that it is unfair to categorize some parties as “small” when the EC charges all parties identical fees—GH₵100,000 for presidential candidates and GH₵10,000 for parliamentary candidates.

    She used an analogy to emphasize her point, stating, “If one is small at home, one does not pay the same amount as the elder brother.”

    Speaking on the JoyNews AM Show, Jantuah further stressed, “So if you people think we are small, all of us, then the fees should be reduced so that the bigger ones would pay and we would pay less. As long as we pay the same, as long as we have the same requirements in law, we are not small.”

    She also voiced her concern that electoral performance should not be the sole factor in determining whether a party is classified as “small” or “big.” Reflecting on the CPP’s history, she noted that the party’s decline began around 2008.

    Additionally, Jantuah criticized the media for its disproportionate focus on the NPP and NDC, often overlooking other parties.

    She pointed out that even prominent figures like Alan Kyerematen receive limited attention compared to other politicians, despite their significant contributions to the political landscape.

  • 2024 Elections: CDD-Ghana suggests a real-time election result transmission on EC website

    2024 Elections: CDD-Ghana suggests a real-time election result transmission on EC website

    Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has recommended that the Electoral Commission (EC) implement an electronic system to transmit election results directly from polling stations to its website for the 2024 elections.

    Rev Dr. Fred Deegbe, representing the Centre, emphasized that this approach would help address irregularities in the collation, transmission, and announcement of election results. By enabling real-time monitoring by citizens, it would enhance the election’s integrity and restore public trust.

    Dr. Deegbe also pointed out the challenges posed by misinformation, disinformation, and the malicious use of social media, stressing the need for a multi-faceted strategy, including improved media and information literacy, to combat these threats.

    Rev Dr Deegbe made the remarks at the 10th anniversary public lecture of the Political Science Education Department of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) held on the theme: “Towards a peaceful 2024 election in Ghana, collaborations among stakeholders in the context of emerging technologies.”

    “Regaining trust is a process and so, the EC should start building it by updating its website to facilitate the transmission of results directly from polling stations to regional centres, and then to the national level.


    The website, he suggested, should provide detailed vote counts for both parliamentary and presidential candidates, with frequent updates whenever there were changes.

    Rev. Dr. Fred Deegbe urged the Electoral Commission (EC) and all election stakeholders to embrace technology for voter education, strengthen cybersecurity, and counteract misinformation.

    He called on Civil Society Organizations to utilize data analytics to maintain accuracy and transparency as the nation moves towards implementing electronic voting in the future.

    Additionally, Rev. Dr. Deegbe encouraged citizens to resist any attempts by politicians to buy their votes in the upcoming general election, stressing the importance of voting wisely and without undue influence to elect leaders who will ensure accountability.

    “A vote is your will, choice and conscience, taking money means you are selling your conscience and ability to hold leadership accountable,” he said.

    He cautioned about the severe impact that the monetization of elections and its processes could have on national development, emphasizing the critical role citizens play in ensuring fair, accurate, and transparent elections for the country’s progress.

    He called on stakeholders to educate the public about the detrimental effects of vote buying on the democratic governance of Ghana.

    He also encouraged all citizens to work together to ensure that Ghana continues to be a beacon of hope for Africa following the 2024 elections.

  • EC reassigns Dr Serebour Quaicoe to lead training department

    EC reassigns Dr Serebour Quaicoe to lead training department

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has reassigned its Director of Services, Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, as part of its preparations for the 2024 elections.

    Dr. Quaicoe will now lead the EC’s Training Department.

    This reshuffle was communicated in a letter signed by the Commission’s Chairperson, Jean Mensa, and sent to Mr. Quaicoe on April 30.

    The letter indicated that the new position will officially begin on July 1.

    Consequently, Dr. Quaicoe has been directed to transfer his current duties to the Deputy Chairman responsible for operations.

    Below is the statement

  • Run to your supporters if you don’t have enough money – EC tells 2024 election aspirants

    Run to your supporters if you don’t have enough money – EC tells 2024 election aspirants

    Director of IT at the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, has advised presidential candidates to seek financial support from their backers to cover the GH₵100,000 filing fee.

    Dr. Quaicoe, who previously served as the EC Director of Electoral Services, made these comments during a forum held by the Institute of Democratic Governance (IDEG) in Accra on Friday.

    “Contesting an election is not an individual issue, if you don’t have the money you should be able to mobilize from your supporters.

    “So if you are saying you want to be the president of Ghana and you not mobilizing people to pay  100,000 then how are you going to do the campaigning?” he admonished.

    Male presidential candidates for the 2024 elections are required to pay GHC100,000 to the Electoral Commission (EC) upon submission of their nomination forms.

    The commission will accept nominations for Presidential and Parliamentary candidates from Friday, August 2, to Friday, September 13, 2024.

    According to the EC, female candidates and persons with disabilities will pay an amount of GHC75,000.

    “Candidates vying for the position of President will be required to make a payment of One Hundred Thousand Ghana Cedis (GH0 100,000.00) at the time of submitting their Nomination Forms. Payment shall be by Banker’s draft and addressed to the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission. Female Candidates and Persons with Disabilities are required to pay Seventy-Five Thousand Ghana Cedis (GH0 75,000),” a statement from the EC dated August 1, read.

    This announcement has elicited varied reactions, with some arguing that it could expose candidates to undue influence from their financial supporters.

    The EC requires that completed Presidential Nomination Forms be signed by the candidate and at least two registered voters from each District Assembly.

  • Court directs EC to supply photo album from Walewale NPP election to plaintiff

    Court directs EC to supply photo album from Walewale NPP election to plaintiff

    The High Court in Tamale has instructed the Electoral Commission (EC) in Walewale to open the ballot box and provide copies of the voter register from the New Patriotic Party’s Parliamentary primaries.

    Justice Richard Marc Kogyapwah, a Court of Appeal Judge serving as an additional High Court Judge, also directed the EC to allow access to the evidence used in the electoral process.

    These directives came after Haija Lariba Zuwera Abudu, a former Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, and a defeated Parliamentary candidate, filed a legal action.

    Madam Abudu brought the case against her opponent, Dr. Kabiru Tia Mahama, and the NPP, alleging that the election involved over-voting and the inclusion of deceased delegates, and requested the court to annul the results and order a re-run.

    Despite three court sessions in Tamale, neither Dr. Kabiru Tia Mahama nor his legal team appeared to contest the motion filed against the plaintiff.

    Petition

    On August 1, they also filed a petition with Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Torkornoo, accusing the trial judge of bias after seeing the Member of Parliament at an event with the judge, who was in the constituency on official duties.

    The claim of bias against the trial judge was rejected, permitting the parties to proceed with their motion.

    Ruling

    On August 7, 2024, the Court ruled in favor of the plaintiff’s request to access the ballot box and photo album from the January 7, 2024 NPP Parliamentary Election. It also ordered that copies of the voter register used be made available.

    Justice Richard Marc Kogyapwah directed the court registrar to notify all defendants of the hearing through electronic methods such as WhatsApp and other social media platforms, as well as posting notices at the second defendant’s residence, Yizo House in Walewale, and on the court’s notice board, ahead of the case management and potential trial scheduled for August 14, 2024.

    During the court proceedings, Wahidu was seen using a Samsung phone to record the court session without authorization. A female police officer stationed at the court questioned him, and he responded by threatening her when she asked for his phone.

    This incident caused a 5-minute delay in the proceedings. Wahidu was promptly arrested by police officers for contempt of court.

    In a subsequent interview with GHOne News, Sylvester Isang (ESQ), the plaintiff’s counsel, confirmed after reviewing the photo album that there was evidence of double voting, voting by deceased delegates, and absentee voting, among other issues.

    “We are grateful to the court for granting us access to our material evidence, which we can confirm has been our suspicion. We shall present our findings to the court. We hope our other concerns will be granted,” counsel reiterated.

    The case has been rescheduled for August 14, 2024, to conduct case management and potentially begin the trial.

  • Don’t declare 2024 election results without publishing results – IDEG to EC

    Don’t declare 2024 election results without publishing results – IDEG to EC

    The Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG) has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure transparency in the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections by publishing the results from all polling stations before announcing the final outcomes.

    In recent years, Ghana’s presidential elections have faced legal challenges at the Supreme Court, with accusations of flawed processes at polling stations.

    The Electoral Commission also faced criticism for issuing two different declarations of the 2020 election results due to discrepancies in result tallying.

    IDEG views such incidents as potential threats to the stability of Ghana’s democracy and suggests that making polling station results publicly available on the EC’s website could prevent similar issues.

    Kwesi Jonah, a Senior Research Fellow at IDEG, emphasized the importance of these measures, noting that while Ghana’s democracy is considered the sixth most stable in Africa, there is still room for improvement.

    “We know that there are certain weaknesses, certain lapses in our democracy and some of these weaknesses relate to the electoral process.

    “The European Union which since 2012, has consistently observed elections in Ghana has always come out with certain recommendations to help us to reform in order to fast track our democracy and not to backtrack it.”

    “One of them has to do with the publication of polling station by polling station results officially on the websites of the Electoral Commission,” he said.

    He emphasized that this approach would prevent political parties from claiming they lack access to the results or from suggesting that the election has been rigged.

    “There is no serious political party that can say that we don’t have the results, polling station by polling station results because our system of elections is such that at every polling station, there are two agents for the political party, one for the presidential candidate, one for the parliamentary candidate,” he said.

    Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission is implementing various reforms to address these issues. However, the commission’s Director of Training, Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, emphasized that political parties must also be prepared to accept the results.

  • Political parties object EC’s proposal to close 2024 polls at 3pm

    Political parties object EC’s proposal to close 2024 polls at 3pm

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has revealed that political parties rejected its proposal to close polls at 3 pm on election day.

    According to the Commission, election observers had suggested that the EC consider bringing forward the traditional 5 pm closure of polls to 3 pm to avoid late-night collation of results.

    In his address at a seminar organised by the Institute for Democratic Governance, themed “EC Procedures for Electoral Disputes and Publication of Election Results,” Director of Training at the Electoral Commission, Dr. Serebour Quaicoe explained that during engagements with various political parties, the Commission proposed ending polls at 3 pm on election day, but the parties rejected this proposal.

    “Voting ends by 3 o’clock, by 5, we should have finished the polling station results. So it will now be left with the transmission of the results. 

    But when we met our colleagues, they said, “for this year we shouldn’t touch the law. The director or training noted.”

    He further went on to reveal that, every polling station would have not more than seven hundred and fifty voters as judging from the previous years, polling stations where counting didn’t eat into the night were mostly free from any electoral related chaos.

    “We had wanted to close elections by 3 o’clock because our understanding and thinking is that most of the confusion occurs at night. 

    And now that we have decided that no polling station should have more than 750 voters, some time ago some used to have even 2000 at a polling station.

    In 2020, the threshold was 749, this time 750. No polling station will have more than 750 voters. And with this, it should not take us three hours, if everybody was to be there on time.

    The ones who are able to do the threshold, we should be able to finish on time. And from experience, counting does not go beyond 2 hours” he added.

  • NPP and NDC are friends, not enemies – EC tells public

    NPP and NDC are friends, not enemies – EC tells public

    Director of Electoral Services at the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, has stated that despite the public animosity between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the leaders of these parties maintain a cordial relationship behind the scenes.

    Dr. Quaicoe highlighted the often-overlooked aspect of Ghanaian politics while speaking at a forum on August 9.

    “One thing I find intriguing is that while the NDC and NPP publicly appear as adversaries, they share a close camaraderie once the cameras are off,” he noted during his address.

    He urged voters to remain peaceful as Ghana approaches the December general election.

    Dr. Quaicoe emphasized that election-related disputes should not lead to harm or conflict among citizens.

    The EC Director advised voters to not be swayed by the public displays of rivalry and to remember that political leaders often reconcile after heated debates.

    “I always remind voters not to be drawn into conflicts. After their public disputes, party members often enjoy a meal together, while ordinary people might end up suffering the consequences,” Dr. Quaicoe said.

    He stressed the importance of maintaining a peaceful atmosphere throughout the election period, urging the public to avoid conflicts based on political differences.

    “No one should face harm or injury because of the elections,” he concluded.

  • EC told to publish 2024 polling station results before declaration 

    EC told to publish 2024 polling station results before declaration 

    The Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG) is calling on the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure that results from all polling stations are published before officially declaring the final results of the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.

    Recent electoral cycles in Ghana have seen numerous petitions at the Supreme Court, alleging irregularities and faulty processes at polling stations. The EC faced criticism in the 2020 elections after declaring the results twice due to discrepancies in tallying.

    IDEG is urging the EC to address these issues by publishing detailed polling station results on its website.

    Senior Research Fellow at IDEG, Kwesi Jonah, emphasized that despite Ghana’s ranking as the sixth most stable democracy in Africa, these steps are crucial for bolstering the country’s democratic integrity.

    “We recognize there are weaknesses in our democratic processes, particularly in the electoral sphere,” Jonah stated.

    “The European Union, which has observed Ghanaian elections since 2012, has repeatedly recommended reforms to enhance our democratic system and avoid regression.”

    Jonah stressed that publishing results from each polling station would address concerns of election rigging and ensure transparency.

    “By making these results available online, we prevent any claims of missing or tampered results. Political parties have agents at every polling station for both presidential and parliamentary elections, so they should have access to these results.”

    In response to these concerns, the Electoral Commission is implementing various reforms. Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, the Director of Training for the EC, acknowledged these recommendations but also emphasized that political parties need to accept the election results as declared.

    The move by IDEG aims to fortify electoral transparency and mitigate disputes, ensuring that the upcoming elections are conducted with greater accountability and public trust.

  • I had death threats but I don’t regret serving as EC Chair – Charlotte Osei

    I had death threats but I don’t regret serving as EC Chair – Charlotte Osei

    Former Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, Charlotte Osei, has opened up about the intense challenges she faced while in office, including multiple death threats that put her and her family’s safety at risk.

    In an interview on Joy FM, she shared how the threats became a part of her life during her tenure. “There were threats through the mail, and sometimes the security agencies would call to warn me to be careful,” she revealed during Thursday’s discussion.

    The situation was especially difficult for her young children, who faced abuse at school amid the tense political climate. Despite her usual resilience, Charlotte Osei admitted she often wondered if the job was worth the danger it posed to her family.

    “My family was very supportive and recognised that it was just for a season. All storms run out of water at some point, so everyone encouraged me to stay strong and see how things would unfold after the elections,” she recounted.

    Charlotte Osei also reflected on the unexpected challenges she encountered upon taking the role, noting that while she anticipated some difficulties, the extent of the hostility was surprising. “There were some things I expected, but it was worse than we anticipated. The sheer pettiness and creative fiction were quite surprising,” she remarked.

    She addressed rumors surrounding her political affiliations, pointing out that while scrutiny was part of the job, the fabrications were shocking. “I woke up to posters claiming I had contested for an election in Evalue Gwira, which I never did and never intended to,” she clarified.

    The former EC boss emphasized the importance of focus and resilience in such a demanding position. “You need to block out a lot of things. Those who worked closely with me knew not to send certain things my way so that I could concentrate on doing the job right. It’s about following the law,” she explained.

    “Insults will be plenty, but you learn not to take things personally. Clean hands and a clean heart—focus on doing your job,” she advised.

    Despite the challenges, Charlotte Osei expressed no regrets about her time as EC Chair. “I cannot say I regret it; it was an absolute honour to serve, and I did it to the best of my ability. I am proud of the work we did,” she concluded.

  • Network challenge mars EC’s mop-up voter registration exercise in New Juaben South

    Network challenge mars EC’s mop-up voter registration exercise in New Juaben South

    Network signal fluctuations hampered the mop-up voter registration exercise in the New Juaben South Municipality on Friday, leading the Electoral Commission (EC) to reschedule the registration of 12 individuals to Saturday, August 3, 2024.

    Mr. Abraham Dautey, the New Juaben South Municipal Technician for the EC, informed the Ghana News Agency that network issues had been affecting the mop-up exercise since it began on Thursday, August 1.

    “Today the network signal went off as early as 11 a.m. and came back at 2:45 p.m. I can’t say it’s because of the continuous shower of rain because the other station is not facing any network signal loss,” he explained.

    Aside from the network problems, Mr. Dautey reported that the registration process at the three centers was proceeding smoothly, with no incidents of double registration attempts.

    “We have three stations where the registration is ongoing. Two stations at the EC office and one at the Koforidua Technical University. The two stations at the EC office faced the network challenges,” he noted.

    By August 2, 2024, a total of 339 applicants, including students and workers who missed the previous registration period, had been successfully registered as eligible voters.

    Mr. Isaac Minta Larbi, the Eastern Regional Director of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress, criticized the EC for failing to ensure a stable network signal during the registration exercise.

    “We are in a world where the network defeats all weather conditions so if you live in a country where the weather defeats your network then you’re far behind,” he remarked.

    Mr. Larbi emphasized the importance of capturing all eligible voters before the three-day mop-up exercise concluded, stressing that citizens could not afford delays since an extension was not guaranteed.

    Conversely, Mr. Obeng Marnu, the New Juaben South Constituency Organizer for the New Patriotic Party, commended the EC for maintaining a safe and efficient registration process despite the adverse weather conditions.

  • 70,000 new voters expected to participate in EC’s mop-up exercise

    70,000 new voters expected to participate in EC’s mop-up exercise

    The Electoral Commission (EC) aims to add between 50,000 to 70,000 new voters to the electoral roll during its upcoming mop-up voter registration exercise from Thursday, August 1 to Saturday, August 3, 2024.

    This three-day event will target those who recently turned 18 or missed the last registration opportunity, ensuring their inclusion in the voter list.

    Samuel Tettey, Deputy Chairman of the EC in charge of Operations, announced at a news conference in Accra that the exercise will be conducted at 268 District Offices, 26 Public Universities, and 41 Prison Centres nationwide.

    Registration will run daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM and will be exclusively online. The EC has collaborated extensively with MTN to guarantee stable internet connectivity throughout the process.

    Previously, from May 7 to 29, 2024, the EC conducted a Limited Voter Registration Exercise, enrolling 778,447 voters, including 408,332 females (52.45%) and 370,115 males (47.55%). Currently, the provisional voter count stands at 18,681,366.

    This mop-up exercise is part of the EC’s efforts to create an inclusive Voters Register for the 2024 General Election.

    To register, applicants must present a Ghana Card or Ghana Passport. If these documents are unavailable, two registered voters must act as guarantors, in line with Regulation 2 of CI 91 as amended by CI 126.

    A registered voter can guarantee for up to 10 people, but those who have already done so in the last exercise are ineligible to guarantee again.

    Guarantors must ensure that the individuals they vouch for are Ghanaian citizens, at least 18 years old, and residents or ordinary residents of the relevant electoral area. Political parties can send agents to observe the registration process, and Mr. Tettey encouraged them to educate their agents to maintain professionalism.

    The EC has coordinated with the Ghana Police Service to ensure security at registration centres. Mr. Tettey urged all participants to behave responsibly to facilitate a smooth process. He also cautioned parents against allowing underage children to participate.

    Additionally, from August 20 to 27, 2024, the EC will exhibit the Voters Register at all polling stations. Registered voters are encouraged to verify their registration either in person or electronically.

  • EC to provide candidates enough time to address issues to avert disqualification

    EC to provide candidates enough time to address issues to avert disqualification

    Deputy Commissioner in charge of Operations at the Electoral Commission (EC), Samuel Tettey, has reassured political parties and potential presidential candidates that sufficient time will be allocated for those seeking to run for the presidency.

    This move aims to prevent the disqualification of aspirants due to time constraints, a situation that occurred in 2020 when five presidential hopefuls were disqualified.

    During a stakeholder forum organized by the National Peace Council to promote peaceful elections in 2024, Mr Tettey emphasized this commitment.

    “We are extending the days of nomination so that if there are certain challenges on the nomination forms of a particular candidate we would be able to resolve that before we put them on the ballot papers,” he stated.

    He further highlighted that the Commission has already secured approximately 90% of the necessary election materials for the 2024 elections. The only remaining task is the printing of ballot papers, which will commence after the nominations have been received.

    Mr Tettey underscored the importance of transparency in the electoral process, noting that all stages of the Commission’s procedures must be carefully observed.

    “The processes are so transparent and at every stage of the process if you have a challenge there is an appropriate end you can put it through,” he affirmed.

  • SDA church urges EC to reschedule elections in favor of sabbath observance

    SDA church urges EC to reschedule elections in favor of sabbath observance

    The Seventh Day Adventist Church in Ghana has issued a strong appeal to the Electoral Commission, requesting a rescheduling of the upcoming elections to allow their members to vote without conflicting with their religious observances.

    The church emphasizes the importance of the Sabbath and highlights the need to respect various religious practices within the democratic framework.

    In a recent statement from the Southern Ghana Conference and Northern Ghana Union Conference of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, the leadership reaffirmed their steadfast dedication to observing the Sabbath while urging their members to fulfill their civic responsibilities.

    Nonetheless, they stress that church services, whether on Saturday or another day, should not be used for political discussions, endorsements, or campaign activities. Instead, the church advocates for a focus on worship, spiritual development, and community fellowship during Sabbath services.

    With the election set for Saturday, December 7, 2024, church leaders have urged their members to carefully consider their voting choices in line with their Sabbath observance beliefs.

    Consistent with its traditional position, the Seventh Day Adventist Church remains committed to avoiding secular activities on the Sabbath, including voting.

    By requesting an alternate election date, the church aims to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation, can participate in the democratic process without compromising their faith. They argue that voting on the Sabbath, a day they hold sacred, goes against their religious principles.

  • 18.6m valid voters currently on EC’s voter roll

    18.6m valid voters currently on EC’s voter roll

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced the addition of 778,447 new voters during the recent limited registration exercise, bringing the total number of valid voters on the roll to over 18.6 million.

    This update was provided by EC chairperson Jean Mensa during a briefing to Parliament on preparations for the upcoming December 7 elections on Friday, July 19.

    Jean Mensa also revealed plans for a mop-up exercise scheduled from Thursday, August 1 to Saturday, August 3. This exercise will be conducted at all district offices, including the newly established Guan district, to ensure all eligible voters are registered.

    In light of this mop-up exercise, the voter exhibition exercise has been rescheduled to August.

    This adjustment aims to address challenges identified during the limited voter registration period, such as violence linked to the guarantor system, where individuals were bused to registration centers.

    To prevent such issues in the future, the EC plans to advocate for the Ghana Card to become the sole identification document for voter registration, aiming to streamline the process and enhance security.

    Additionally, the Commission has recruited 210,000 officials who will undergo training to ensure they can effectively fulfill their roles.

    Jean Mensa emphasized that the EC now has complete data on all recruited staff, which will facilitate better management and coordination of the electoral process.

  • EC will cause serious disaster if it tries to manipulate election results – Nyaho Tamakloe

    A founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has issued a strong caution to the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana, urging it to respect the will of the people and avoid any attempts to manipulate electoral results.

    He emphasized that any such attempt could have dire consequences for the nation.

    In an interview with JoySports’ Atsu Tamakloe, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe stated, “In these times, any tricks by the Electoral Commission to alter the results will lead this country into a serious disaster. Young people must be vigilant and ensure this does not happen, as they stand to lose the most.”

    Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe also expressed skepticism about the NPP’s chances in the upcoming December polls. He specifically questioned the capability of the NPP flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and his running mate, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, to secure a genuine victory.

    “I personally do not believe that the Bawumia-Opoku Prempeh ticket can win a genuine election in this country,” he remarked.

    Further, he raised concerns about the selection process of Dr. Bawumia’s running mate, suggesting that Dr. Bawumia was not given the autonomy to choose his own partner for the election.

    “I predicted earlier that Bawumia would not have a free hand to pick his running mate, and that’s exactly what happened. His running mate was selected for him, which could hinder their synergy,” he said.

    Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe also criticized the legislative efforts of some Members of Parliament to enforce their rights to use sirens and drive without adhering to speed limits, calling it a worrying trend.

    Meanwhile, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana, Jean Mensa, has reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that the December 2024 elections accurately reflect the will of the people, emphasizing that there will be no rigging to favor any political party.

    In a recent briefing to Parliament, Mrs Mensa outlined the EC’s processes for securing election integrity.

    She detailed that the electoral body employs a manual system for result transmission, where results are transferred from polling stations across the country to the EC headquarters in Accra.

    According to Mrs Mensa, each polling station has its own set of results, which are also duplicated for the respective party agents present. This system, she explained, makes any tampering or alteration at the central level nearly impossible.

    “I would like to assure you that whatever comes from the ground, from the polling stations where all the agents of the parties are present, goes to the constituency collation centers where the agents are also present,” Mensa said.

    “A tabulation is done in their presence and then it goes to the regional collation centers, followed by the national level. It is not transmitted electronically; rather, it involves hard copies of documents.”

    She emphasized that the results, known as pink sheets, are scanned and sent via fax and email, ensuring that parties have access to their copies in real-time to verify the results.

    “So I would like to assure you that there is absolutely no way the commission can change anything at the top because the documentation comes directly from the ground and the parties have copies,” Mensa added.

    Mrs Mensa also stressed the EC’s dedication to transparency throughout the election process, stating that from registration to result declaration, the Commission will operate with the utmost transparency, fairness, and integrity.

    “From the registration to the declaration, our processes are embedded with one key ingredient: transparency. We will continue to uphold transparency, fairness, and integrity as our guiding principles,” she concluded.

  • Election security is not a part of our job – EC

    Election security is not a part of our job – EC

    Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Adukwei Mensa, has clarified that the EC is not responsible for ensuring security during elections.

    Her statement comes as a response to misconceptions about the Commission’s role in the electoral process.

    In a recent briefing to Parliament ahead of the 2024 elections, Madam Mensa emphasized that the EC’s duties are strictly related to election management and not security.

    She explained that the EC collaborates with the National Election Security Task Force, which is led by the Inspector General of Police, to safeguard voters and election materials at polling stations across the country.

    “Our role is to collaborate with them by providing details of all our centres and our printing arrangements, enabling them to work with us and protect the ballots, especially during transportation to the regions,” Mensa said.

    She further clarified, “We have often heard that the Electoral Commission is responsible for security, but we want to emphasize that this is the mandate of the security agencies. The police are co-responsible for security before, during, and after elections, and they make all security decisions independently of the Electoral Commission.”

  • 2024 polls: PNC petitions EC against certification of PNP over similar party emblem

    2024 polls: PNC petitions EC against certification of PNP over similar party emblem

    People’s National Convention (PNC) has requested that the Electoral Commission (EC) delay issuing the final certificate for the registration of the People’s National Party (PNP).

    In a statement sent to the EC on July 16, the PNC’s solicitors raised concerns about the name PNP, noting that it closely resembles the PNC, the party that emerged from the PNP.

    They argue that this similarity could potentially confuse voters.

    “The use of the palm nut tree as an emblem for the newly formed party PNP will further confuse the electorates leaving them to believe that the PNC and PNP are one and the same.”

    “Since the executives of the PNP are former executives of the PNC, together with the history between the erstwhile PNP and PNC earlier canvassed, it will leave no doubt in the minds of electorates that the new PNP and PNC are one and the same,” the statement read.

    PNC-LAWYERS-WRITES-TO-ECDownload
  • Your angry, dissatisfied staff will always leak your crooked plots to us – NDC’s Omane to EC

    Your angry, dissatisfied staff will always leak your crooked plots to us – NDC’s Omane to EC

    Director of IT and Elections for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Omane Boamah, has informed the leadership of the Electoral Commission that their staff are disgruntled. He claims that these dissatisfied employees are leaking crucial information to the opposition party.

    The former communications minister emphasized that unless the Electoral Commission addresses this growing crisis, the staff will continue to pass on their directives to the NDC. He urged the commission to refrain from interfering in their officers’ work and cautioned against allowing themselves to be manipulated by the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    “Don’t allow yourselves to be used by the failed and incompetent NPP to serve the ends of their dubious so-called STRATEGY!”

    Read his post below:

    ELECTORAL COMMISSION STOP IT!

    147 Days to December 7, 2024 elections.

    The TWO MEN at the top echelons of the Electoral Commission seeking to impose Presiding Officers and Presidential Ballot Issuers on some Regional Directors and District Electoral Officers must abandon the crooked idea immediately.

    Your staff on the ground are already dissatisfied and almost revolted a few weeks ago because of several other factors.

    Because your staff on the ground are sufficiently angry, dissatisfied, and are unwilling to carry out your intrusive orders, they will continue to leak your orders to us, #EAGLEEYES.

    Just stop interfering!

  • More Ghanaians losing trust in Courts, Police, EC – Afrobarometer Reports

    More Ghanaians losing trust in Courts, Police, EC – Afrobarometer Reports

    The latest Afrobarometer survey has unveiled a stark decline in public trust in Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC), courts, and police, painting a troubling picture for these pivotal institutions.

    The data, spanning from 1999 to 2022, reveals a dramatic erosion of confidence that poses significant concerns for the country’s democratic process and rule of law.

    Once a beacon of trust, the Electoral Commission has witnessed a precipitous drop in public confidence. In 1999, the EC enjoyed a commendable trust rating of 63%.

    This figure surged to an impressive 75% in 2005. However, the latest data from 2022 shows that only 33% of Ghanaians now have faith in the EC. This sharp decline reflects growing public skepticism about the commission’s ability to conduct free and fair elections.

    The courts have not been immune to this trend. In 1999, 58% of respondents expressed confidence in the judiciary, and this number rose slightly to 62% by 2005. Yet, by 2022, trust in the judicial system had plummeted to a mere 36%. This significant decline indicates a deepening distrust in the courts’ ability to deliver justice impartially and effectively.

    The police force, often the most visible arm of law enforcement, has also experienced a severe drop in public trust. In 1999, trust in the police stood at 49%, climbing to 64% in 2005.

    However, by 2022, only 28% of Ghanaians expressed confidence in the police. This decline persists despite the efforts of IGP George Akufo Dampare to enhance the police’s image and effectiveness.

    Historical Trust Levels

    • Electoral Commission (EC)
    • 1999: 63%
    • 2005: 75%
    • 2022: 33%

    The Courts

    • 1999: 58%
    • 2005: 62%
    • 2022: 36%

    The Police

    • 1999: 49%
    • 2005: 64%
    • 2022: 28%

    The Afrobarometer data underscores an urgent need for reforms across these institutions. Restoring public trust will require significant efforts to increase transparency, accountability, and performance.

    For the EC, ensuring transparent electoral processes and addressing public concerns head-on will be crucial. The judiciary must work towards greater impartiality and efficiency, while the police need to rebuild their relationship with the public through consistent and fair law enforcement.

  • Prepare to protect your system against Cyber attack on Dec 7 – ACDT to EC

    Prepare to protect your system against Cyber attack on Dec 7 – ACDT to EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has been advised by the Africa Center for Digital Transformation to take precautionary measures and be ready for potential cyberattacks in the upcoming general elections.

    In a statement signed on Tuesday July 2, 2024, the Center’s Executive Director, Kwesi Atuahene, urged stakeholders to ensure that the necessary cybersecurity measures are in put in place to protect the integrity of the elections.

    “The hype surrounding cyber-attacks is often relegated to the realm of fiction in larger public conversations and seems to paint a picture of some shadowy, omnipotent force that can flip votes, deny services, and bring the most advanced infrastructural devices of the world to a grinding halt.

    “The Africa Center for Digital Transformation (ACDT) is aware of the importance of the December 7 elections and its significance on the country’s development and that of the African continent. It is within this context that we take the issue of cyber-attacks seriously and consider it of national importance,” portions of the statement read.

    With barely five months to the 2024 elections, Mr Atuahene noted that as sensitization of peace, free and fair election is been propagated, “improving the cyber defense readiness and raising cyber vigilance in countering cyber threats, will be a strong force multiplier for the public and private sector, election stakeholders, and the general public,” Mr Kwesi Atuahene wrote.

    Full statement below:

    ACDT-ON-CYBERATTACKDownload
  • Sole use of Ghana Card will avert conflicts during voter registration – EC

    Sole use of Ghana Card will avert conflicts during voter registration – EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana is advocating for the Ghana Card to become the sole identification for voter registration in future elections, aiming to prevent the confrontations that marred the recent voter transfer exercise.

    This exercise, notably in Weija, saw several incidents of confusion and violence, resulting in injuries, including the son of Awutu Senya East MP, Mavis Hawa Koomson.

    Speaking to the media following a meeting with over 50 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), EC Chairperson Jean Mensa highlighted the need for Parliament to pass a bill endorsing the Ghana Card as the exclusive requirement for voter registration.

    She emphasized that such a change would streamline the process and reduce conflicts.

    Mensa expressed satisfaction with the feedback from the CSOs, underscoring the collaborative efforts to ensure peaceful elections in the future.

    “The input from the CSOs has been invaluable, and we hope Parliament recognizes the importance of the Ghana Card as the sole voter ID,” she stated.

    Reflecting on the recent voter transfer exercise, Mensa noted that although it was generally successful, there were instances of unrest and conflicts.

    “No lives were lost, thankfully, but the issues around the guarantor system led to parties challenging each other at the registration centers,” she said.

    The EC believes that adopting the Ghana Card exclusively would eliminate such disputes, leading to more orderly and conflict-free voter registration processes.

    Mensa expressed hope that Parliament will align with the EC’s proposal to adopt the Ghana Card for future elections, albeit after the 2024 elections.

    “We trust that Parliament will see the necessity of this change to prevent future conflicts,” she added.

    Albert Kofi Arhin, National Coordinator of the Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO), emphasized the importance of promoting peace ahead of the elections.

    He highlighted the high tensions and desperation among the populace due to the economic situation. “The EC’s engagement with CSOs is crucial. We need to educate the people about peace, especially given the heightened tensions this election year,” Arhin urged.

  • You must engage all presidential aspirants to ensure a peaceful 2024 elections – Peace Council to EC

    You must engage all presidential aspirants to ensure a peaceful 2024 elections – Peace Council to EC

    The Chairman of Ghana’s National Peace Council (NPC), Rev Dr Ernest Adu-Gyamfi, has advocated for a crucial meeting between the Electoral Commission (EC) and all presidential candidates ahead of the upcoming December elections.

    This proposal aims to provide a platform for candidates to express their concerns and ensure a peaceful electoral process.

    In an interview with JoyNews’ Latif Iddrisu, Rev Dr Adu-Gyamfi emphasized the necessity of fostering peace among candidates during their campaigns and beyond.

    He stressed that electoral campaigns should focus not only on policies but also on upholding democratic values and respecting electoral outcomes.

    “Elections are won at the polling stations, and violence should have no place in our democratic process,” stated Dr Adu-Gyamfi, highlighting the importance of peaceful conduct by political parties and their supporters.

    Already, Ghana’s major political parties, including the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), have confirmed their flagbearers for the 2024 elections. Former President John Mahama will represent the NDC, while Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia will lead the NPP’s campaign.

    In addition to the main parties, other contenders have declared their intentions to vie for the presidency. John Kwadwo Kyerematen, leader of the Movement for Change, and Nana Kwame Bediako, heading The New Force political movement, are among those aspiring to contest.

    However, the Convention People’s Party (CPP) is facing internal challenges that may prevent them from fielding a presidential candidate this election cycle.

    Sylvester Sarpong-Soprano, CPP’s Director of Communications, revealed in an interview with Asaase Radio that ongoing internal disputes and legal issues have hampered the party’s ability to organize effectively and conduct primaries.

  • Create vote transfer centres on university campuses – NUGS tells EC

    Create vote transfer centres on university campuses – NUGS tells EC

    The National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to “exercise its powers to the fullest and take the necessary steps” to establish voter registration centers in tertiary institutions across the country.

    This appeal follows an earlier petition submitted to the EC by the union.

    In a press statement issued on June 5, NUGS emphasized that this move would facilitate the participation of students who are registered voters but may find it difficult to vote in their designated constituencies due to their location at educational institutions.

    “We kindly request that the Electoral Commission takes the necessary steps to enable the limited transfer of votes for our members,” the statement read.

    NUGS highlighted the importance of ensuring that students, who play a significant role in the nation’s development through their education, are not excluded from key decision-making processes.

    “Our petition is firmly rooted in the legal and constitutional framework of Ghana. We draw attention to Section 12 (1) of the Electoral Commission Act, which mandates the Commission to make regulations for the registration of voters, including provisions for voting by proxy and the issue of identity cards,” the statement continued.

    The union further referenced Article 42 of the 1992 Constitution, which guarantees every citizen of Ghana, aged eighteen and above, the right to vote.

    They also pointed out that Articles 45 and 46 empower the Electoral Commission to make regulations for the transfer of votes, ensuring that no citizen is disenfranchised.

    NUGS reiterated its commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of students, insisting that every student should have the opportunity to exercise their constitutional right to vote without undue hardship.

    They argued that by setting up these centers, the EC would not only ease the logistical and financial burdens on students but also uphold the principles of inclusivity and fairness that underpin Ghana’s democracy.

    “We earnestly appeal to the Electoral Commission to establish voter registration centers on university campuses. This action will protect the guaranteed right to vote for students and ensure their active participation in the democratic process,” the union added.

  • You don’t have the power to make decisions that will jeopardize the peace of this country – Ato Forson to EC

    You don’t have the power to make decisions that will jeopardize the peace of this country – Ato Forson to EC

    Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has denounced the Electoral Commission (EC) for its recent actions, specifically the exclusion and subsequent reinstatement of political party agents during the current voter transfer process.

    Dr. Forson argued that the EC does not possess the autonomy to make such “outrageous and unwise” decisions.

    Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, June 11, he highlighted that the Minority will not allow the EC to make decisions that could endanger the country’s democracy.

    He urged Parliament to ensure the Electoral Commission is held accountable to maintain Ghana’s peace and stability.

    Dr. Forson emphasized the necessity of parliamentary oversight to prevent any actions by the EC that could compromise democratic procedures.

    Moreover, Dr. Forson revealed that the Minority will call for an urgent committee meeting to address these serious concerns with the Electoral Commission before they escalate.

    He called for swift action to resolve these issues and protect the integrity of the electoral process.

    “While we acknowledge that the Electoral Commission is an independent body, it must be pointed out in no uncertain terms to the Electoral Commission that it does not have the independence to make dangerous, ridiculous and outrageous decisions that can affect the peace and stability of our country and this democracy.”

    “It is therefore imperative that Parliament calls the Electoral Commission to order to save this democracy and protect the peace and stability of our dear country,” he stated.

    “Mr Speaker, the NDC minority caucus want to use this forum to demand an urgent committee of the whole to iron out these grave concerns with the Electoral Commission before it is too late,” he added.

  • We won’t allow you make decisions that could jeopardize Ghana’s democracy – Minority warns EC

    We won’t allow you make decisions that could jeopardize Ghana’s democracy – Minority warns EC

    Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has openly criticized the Electoral Commission (EC) for its latest decisions, including the initial barring and subsequent reinstatement of political party agents in the ongoing voter transfer process.

    Dr. Forson asserted that the EC’s actions reflect a lack of independence, describing the decisions as “outrageous and unwise.”

    During the Parliamentary session on Tuesday, June 11, he made it clear that the Minority will not tolerate the EC making decisions that could endanger Ghana’s democracy.

    He urged Parliament to ensure the Electoral Commission is held accountable, underscoring the vital role of parliamentary oversight in maintaining national peace and stability. Dr. Forson stressed the need for Parliament to prevent the EC from engaging in actions that could compromise democratic procedures.

    Furthermore, Dr. Forson revealed that the Minority will call for an urgent committee of the whole to thoroughly address these pressing issues with the Electoral Commission before they escalate.

    He pressed for immediate measures to be taken to resolve these concerns and protect the integrity of the electoral process.

    “While we acknowledge that the Electoral Commission is an independent body, it must be pointed out in no uncertain terms to the Electoral Commission that it does not have the independence to make dangerous, ridiculous and outrageous decisions that can affect the peace and stability of our country and this democracy.”

    “It is therefore imperative that Parliament calls the Electoral Commission to order to save this democracy and protect the peace and stability of our dear country.”

    “Mr Speaker, the NDC minority caucus want to use this forum to demand an urgent committee of the whole to iron out these grave concerns with the Electoral Commission before it is too late,” he said.

  • Mop-up voter registration exercise must be extended to remote areas – Mahama tells EC

    Mop-up voter registration exercise must be extended to remote areas – Mahama tells EC

    John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to expand the upcoming mop-up voter registration exercise beyond district offices to include remote areas that are difficult to access.

    The EC’s mop-up exercise is scheduled to take place from August 1-3, 2024.

    Mahama argues that extending the registration sites will allow eligible Ghanaians who have recently turned 18 or older to register during the mop-up exercise, thereby preventing voter suppression.

    He made these comments during an interaction with Ghanaians known as ‘Mahama Conversations’ on Sunday, June 9, 2024.

    “If this young lady or gentleman manages to secure two guarantors, pays for the transportation of the guarantors to accompany them to a registration centre and due to network failure and postponements, this young person is unable to register via the guarantor system, what is the likelihood that he or she can return another day to register with two guarantors?

    “That leads to voter suppression. I will continue to urge the EC to prevent voter suppression by extending the mop-up exercise beyond its district offices to include all hard-to-reach areas.

    “This will enable Ghanaians who have turned 18 or more to register from the 1st to the 3rd of August,” he said.

    He reassured his supporters that any challenges with voting would not hinder his ultimate victory in the elections, emphasizing that his win would be a triumph for all Ghanaians.

    “However, let me assure you that no matter the challenges or artificial mountains and obstacles they erect in your paths to prevent you from exercising your franchise, my victory in the polls shall be your victory. It shall be a victory for all the suffering Ghanaians,” he stated.

  • EC provides new political party ‘Yellow Ghana’ provisional certificate

    EC provides new political party ‘Yellow Ghana’ provisional certificate

    Yellow Ghana, a dynamic political movement said to be dedicated to addressing the numerous challenges facing the nation, has been officially recognized by Ghana’s Electoral Commission.

    Established in October 2020, Yellow Ghana aims to unify the African continent into a seamless, borderless economy. The movement received its provisional certificate from the Commission on May 30, 2024, in Accra.

    This recognition, granted under section 8 (2) of the Political Parties Act 2000 (ACT 574), allows Yellow Ghana to organize as a political party in accordance with Ghana’s electoral laws, paving the way for full certification.

    An independent presidential aspirant and interim leader of Yellow Ghana, Samuel Apea-Danquah, shared this milestone on Facebook, highlighting the significance of this achievement for the movement.

    “Today, the EC issued our provisional certificate – Yellow Ghana (YG) is now a political party! No one person can do this alone – the vision must be borne by as many of us as possible; it mustn’t die with one man. Together, we can save this country!.”

    It’s been over 2 years of hard work mobilising people at the grassroots across 256 constituencies in Ghana! As Dr Kwame Nkrumah said, “Organization is everything!” We are on course to win this election.”

    Mr Apea-Danquah is reported to have told Myjoyonline.com that this process “Effectively makes us a political party and allows us to rally like-minded Ghanaians from all over the country. We have now transitioned from Yellow Ghana – the movement to Yellow Ghana – the political party.”

    Samuel Apea-Danquah expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to this milestone and vowed to collaborate with members, executives, and citizens to foster improvements benefiting the entire nation.

    He extended an open invitation to citizens interested in party positions, including parliamentary roles, to apply, emphasizing Yellow Ghana’s commitment to leadership, equality, and prosperity for all.

    In preparation for the 2024 elections, Yellow Ghana has been actively engaging in various initiatives, including the launch of its manifesto, to build a better future for all Ghanaians.

    “Yellow Ghana has been carrying out free health screening since September 2023 in Accra, Kasoa, Kaneshie and Circle. We have also been engaging with people at the grassroots level all over the country. We just recently outdoored our 330-page manifesto as well.

    Asked whether he believed they could make inroads considering the posture of the majority of the voting populace towards other minor parties aside from the two known parties, the NDC and NPP, Mr Samuel Apea-Danquah retorted “As Dr Kwame Nkrumah said, organisation determines everything. We believe that with a strong message, a decentralised political platform and the passion to transform Ghana, we shall succeed.”

    Yellow Ghana, with the slogan “Freedom, Justice, and Prosperity,” is dedicated to holding leaders accountable, ensuring the prosperity of all citizens, and upholding the principle of equality for everyone, regardless of race, origin, religion, or political and social affiliations.

    Colours and Symbolism: A Beacon of Hope

    Emblazoned with the colour yellow and symbolised by a black anchor, Yellow Ghana is a staunch believer in the country’s potential for greatness.

    The distinctive yellow represents core values such as optimism, hope, youth, and boundless energy, encapsulating the party’s unwavering belief in a brighter future for Ghana and the African continent. The black anchor symbolizes stability, strength, and the resilience needed to navigate through challenges, underscoring the party’s commitment to enduring and overcoming obstacles.

  • EC to hold 3-day voter registration mop-up exercise in August

    EC to hold 3-day voter registration mop-up exercise in August

    The Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) has unveiled plans to carry out a three-day mop-up voter registration exercise starting August 1.

    This initiative will take place across the Commission’s district offices and aims to ensure thorough voter registration for the forthcoming December 2024 elections.

    In an official letter addressed to the General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), the EC emphasized its commitment to maximizing voter participation through this additional registration opportunity.

    “This comes to inform you that the Commission will conduct a mop-up voter registration exercise at all the district offices of the Commission throughout the country.”

    “The registration will also be extended to the prison centres. This exercise will take place from Thursday, 1 August to Saturday, 3 August, 2024. The modalities for the exercise will be discussed at an IPAC meeting to be held in due course,” the letter said.

    In a concerted effort to enhance voter registration for the forthcoming elections, the Electoral Commission (EC) extended its initial 21-day registration period by an additional three days in May.

    This extension took place from May 27 to 29 across the EC’s 268 district offices nationwide. To further support those who missed the initial registration window, the EC has scheduled a “mop-up” voter registration drive for August 1, ensuring wider participation in the electoral process.

  • EC’s actions lately not putting many to sleep –  Tanko-Computer

    EC’s actions lately not putting many to sleep –  Tanko-Computer

    The Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Rashid Tanko-Computer, has voiced criticism against the Electoral Commission (EC), arguing their actions lately is creating confusions.

    This response follows a press release from the EC on June 2nd, which stated that party agents should not be present at polling stations.

    This instruction goes against the consensus reached during an IPAC gathering on May 29th, where it was determined that political parties should be able to oversee the transfer process to guarantee transparency.

    The sudden change of stance by the EC, as highlighted in their statement on June 2nd, has raised apprehensions within the NDC regarding the legitimacy of the electoral procedure.

    Speaking to the media, Dr Tanko said, “The posturing of this current Electoral Commission does not allow anybody to go to sleep and to think that they are an independent body because they have not shown enough good faith to warrant that kind of accolade that we used to know about the Electoral Commission.

    “I will walk you through the process. Look at what happened in 2020. In 2020, how many results did she declare? On the 9th, she declared one. In the evening, she changed the result. In the morning on the 10th, she changed another result, several changes, as we speak now, you cannot even pinpoint which result she used to declare Nana Addo as the President.”

    Dr. Rashid Tanko-Computer asserted that by declining to be subjected to a cross-examination about the 2020 election outcomes, the Electoral Commission evaded criticism.

    In addition, he criticised the 2023 voter registration process as “shambolic,” alleging that the EC is still grappling with the task of cleaning up the voters’ register.

    “We did an election, Assembly men election, where ballot papers got short in the polling station. Have you ever seen some before? So, this kind of Electoral Commission is noted for these kinds of wrongs. Just recent registration, fake figures and wrong figures were chained out. We corrected them”, he noted.

  • Electoral Commission denies allegations of working in favor of NPP

    Electoral Commission denies allegations of working in favor of NPP

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has refuted claims of bias toward the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    After facing criticism from John Dramani Mahama, the NDC’s presidential candidate, and the party itself over restrictions on political party agents during the voter transfer process, the EC has been accused of colluding with the NPP to manipulate the December 7 general elections.

    Following discussions, the EC rescinded its decision to prohibit political party agents from observing the voter transfer exercise.

    In a statement, the EC clarified that the initial directive stemmed from concerns about threats to national peace arising from the behavior of political party agents at district offices.

    The commission stressed that its actions were not to shield its operations from scrutiny or to favor any specific political party.

    Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and fairness, the election management body assured the public of its dedication to these principles. It underscored that transparency and accountability are central to its operations, hence the decision to allow political parties to observe the voter transfer process.

    The EC urged the public to disregard claims suggesting it is biased towards any particular political party, emphasizing that such allegations are unfounded.

    It stated that its decisions are made impartially, applying to all political parties and stakeholders alike.

  • EC rescinds its decision to ban political party agents from observing voter transfer exercise

    EC rescinds its decision to ban political party agents from observing voter transfer exercise

    Electoral Commission (EC) has rescinded its previous order barring agents of political parties from witnessing the voter transfer exercise.

    Party agent access to transfer centres was banned in the first memo, which was sent to district officials on June 2. The document cited violent instances as justification for the prohibition.


    Political parties and civil society organisations swiftly condemned the action, calling it a betrayal of democratic ideals and a possible reason for disparities in vote distribution.

    The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, expressed his worries on Facebook, claiming that the EC’s directive was evidence of cooperation with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to rig the upcoming general elections on December 7.

    But in an unexpected change of events, the EC overturned the contentious judgement in a press statement on June 4.

    The Electoral Commission’s Deputy Commissioner in charge of Operations, Samuel Tettey, said the decision to reverse was made after careful deliberation and evaluation of the many issues brought out.

    “Following internal discussions and in consideration of the concerns of some stakeholders, the Commission has decided to revert to its decision made at IPAC.

    “The Commission has directed its Officers at the Districts to allow Agents of Political Parties to observe the Transfer of Votes Exercise with effect from tomorrow Wednesday, 5th June, 2024,” portions of the release said.

  • EC begins replacing Voter ID cards today

    EC begins replacing Voter ID cards today

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially announced the commencement of the replacement process for Voter ID Cards, starting today, Thursday, May 30, and running until Friday, June 14, 2024.

    This service is specifically designed for individuals who have lost or misplaced their Voter ID Cards and are preparing for the upcoming December 7 general elections.

    In a statement released on Tuesday, May 28, the EC outlined detailed instructions for voters wishing to obtain replacements for their lost Voter ID Cards.

    To begin the process, individuals must make a payment through the designated shortcode *2221067#.

    “The cost for replacement is GH¢10 only,” the statement specified.

    The replacement program is essential to ensure that all eligible voters have access to their Voter ID Cards ahead of the upcoming general elections. Voter identification is a crucial component of the electoral process, and the EC’s efforts to facilitate replacements demonstrate a commitment to maintaining the integrity and inclusivity of the electoral system.

    Voters are encouraged to take advantage of the specified timeframe to secure their replacements, ensuring their ability to fully participate in the democratic process on Election Day.

  • CODEO lauds EC for a successful limited voter registration exercise

    CODEO lauds EC for a successful limited voter registration exercise

    The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has praised the Electoral Commission (EC) for successfully conducting the limited voter registration exercise.

    Albert Arhin, the National Coordinator, noted that despite initial challenges at some registration centers, the EC effectively managed the process overall.

    “My verdict is that the EC did well. It has done well and why I am saying this is that yes, we had problems at the initial stages, especially with the first two days. We had this problem of some machines not working well and we also had this network problem.

    “So, if you remember at a point in time,  they said they could go offline and be doing the registration. But I think the EC listened to advice so they were able to cope. And so, after the first two days where we had these problems, the exercise stabilised and it went on smoothly,” he lauded in an interview on Accra-based Citi FM.

    The 21-day exercise, starting on May 7 and originally set to conclude on May 27, 2024, has been extended.

    In response to requests for more time, the EC extended the deadline to May 29, a day marked by long queues in various regions of the country.

    Additionally, starting today, May 30, the EC will begin replacing missing ID cards at a fee of GH₵ 10.

  • Ghanaians to pay GHS10 voter ID cards replacement – EC

    Ghanaians to pay GHS10 voter ID cards replacement – EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has stated that the replacement of Voter ID Cards will begin on Thursday, May 30, and run until Friday, June 14, 2024.

    This service is intended for those who have misplaced their Voter ID Cards in readiness for the upcoming December 7 general elections.

    In a statement released on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, the EC encouraged all voters requiring replacements to make payments using the shortcode 2221067#.

    “The cost for replacement is GH¢10 only,” the statement read.

    The EC also directed applicants to furnish the District Officer with the reference code obtained after payment to expedite the card replacement process.

    This endeavor aligns with the Commission’s goal of enabling all eligible voters to engage in the upcoming elections seamlessly. Voters are urged to reach out to their local EC offices for additional information and support.

  • We will provide accurate figures and information ahead of 2024 polls – EC

    We will provide accurate figures and information ahead of 2024 polls – EC

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has reaffirmed its commitment to providing accurate figures and information as the December elections approach.

    Following severe criticism over errors in data published during the ongoing limited voter registration exercise, the EC acknowledged and corrected specific infographics, assuring that the overall statistics of registered voters remain unaffected.

    Speaking at an engagement with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and other stakeholders, Chairperson Jean Mensa urged the public to maintain confidence in the Commission.

    “Whilst I do not hold brief for the team, because they were relying on Coral Draw to come up with these pie charts and graphs and so on, they were doing it manually. And so what we have done is go back to the drawing board and use Excel.

    “And so we may not have those colourful graphs, and the focus should not be on that because the application that was being used was not able to do accurate tabulations, so you will find that people had to do it manually.

    “So the Coral Draw has been abandoned, and Excel has been applied. But again, I say this because we are a listening Commission and intend to build trust, you come back and let the people know what went wrong and what has been done.”

  • EC to hold special voting for 2024 elections on Dec. 2

    EC to hold special voting for 2024 elections on Dec. 2

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that special voting for the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections will take place on Monday, December 2.

    This announcement was made by the Commission’s chairperson, Jean Adukwei Mensa, during a meeting with the national executives of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and representatives of the security forces in Accra on Tuesday, May 28.

    “The special voting will be held on Monday 2nd December 2024 in all the 275 constituencies in the country,” she stated.

    The special voting arrangement is designed to accommodate individuals performing election-related duties on the main polling day.

    This includes personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces, National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), National Security, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana National Fire Service, and Information Services Department.

    Additionally, members of the National Ambulance Service, Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Prisons Service, Ghana Journalists Association, Ghana Police Service, and the National Media Commission are also included.

    This early voting ensures that these individuals can exercise their right to vote without conflicting with their professional responsibilities during the elections. However, the results of the special voting will not be declared until after the general elections.

  • Effutu: NDC concerned of potential manipulation after EC’s abrupt transfer

    Effutu: NDC concerned of potential manipulation after EC’s abrupt transfer

    Effutu constituency branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed serious concerns over the sudden transfer of Emelia Ama Akotiah, the Electoral Commissioner (EC) for the area, just days before the conclusion of the limited voter registration exercise.

    During a press conference, James Kofi Annan, the NDC’s parliamentary candidate in Effutu, raised suspicions of potential manipulation associated with this unexpected transfer.

    He emphasized that while Akotiah’s past performance as Electoral Commissioner had been marred by allegations of voter manipulation during the 2020 elections, her recent efforts were focused on addressing these issues.

    “Why will you transfer an officer at such an ungodly hour when you know that there is an ongoing registration exercise and there is an impending transfer to be done?”

    Mr. Annan quizzed, implying that the transfer might be a strategic decision to disrupt fair processes ahead of the upcoming December 7 polls.

    Mr. Annan emphasized that the timing of the transfer is highly suspicious and could potentially compromise the integrity of the electoral process in the constituency.

    He suggested that Emelia Akotiah’s proactive measures to rectify past irregularities and prevent future ones might have prompted her abrupt transfer.

    The Effutu branch of the NDC is urging transparency and accountability from the Electoral Commission regarding this decision.

    They are demanding clear explanations for Akotiah’s transfer and insisting that the registration and upcoming electoral procedures remain free from any form of manipulation or bias.

  • We monitoring our expenditure despite being in an election year – Minister of State

    We monitoring our expenditure despite being in an election year – Minister of State

    Minister of State at the Finance Ministry, Abena Osei-Asare, has provided reassurance to Ghanaians, affirming that the government maintains fiscal discipline despite the current election year.

    She emphasized the government’s commitment to generating essential revenue to stabilize the economy.

    Osei-Asare highlighted the effectiveness of certain governmental policies aimed at fortifying the economy, noting their positive impact thus far.

    “The fiscal consolidation is holding as we are monitoring our expenditures. It is true that we are in an election year, but the government will contain the expenditure as approved by the 2024 budget, and also, we will ensure we raise the needed revenue to balance the tide,” the Minister of State at the Finance Ministry said.

    The PC-PEG program, supported by the IMF, has demonstrated notable growth, showcasing resilience and strength, she noted.

    She observed a decline in inflation, a decrease in interest rates, and a reduction in public debt.

    Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, during the 2024 budget presentation, outlined the government’s intention to spend GH¢226.7 billion in 2024.

    This amount represents 21.6 percent of Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    Ken Ofori-Atta clarified that this projection reflects a 6.1 percentage point decrease in total expenditures (commitment basis) relative to the 2022 out-turn.

  • MFC asks EC to publish photos of returning officers

    MFC asks EC to publish photos of returning officers

    A spokesperson for the Movement for Change, Mr. Solomon Owusu, has urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to release the names and photographs of all Returning Officers for the forthcoming general elections scheduled for December 7, 2024, in the interest of transparency.

    Mr. Owusu emphasized that this step is essential for ensuring transparency throughout and after the elections.

    During an appearance on the Citizen’s Show hosted by KOJ on Accra 100.5 FM on Monday, May 27, 2024, Mr. Owusu cited the Ejisu by-election in the Ashanti Region as a significant example.

    He alleged that the EC’s Returning Officers influenced the outcome of the by-election, resulting in the defeat of Mr. Kwabena Owusu Aduomi to the New Patriotic Party’s candidate, Kwabena Boateng.

    Mr. Owusu argued that the Ejisu by-election served as a rehearsal for the governing party’s purported election rigging tactics.

    Highlighting the importance of transparency, Mr. Owusu urged the publication of the names and images of Returning Officers to deter potential election manipulation.

    He cautioned that the failure to do so could put the lives of EC officials at risk, making them vulnerable during the elections.

    In conclusion, Mr. Owusu’s plea for transparency aims to uphold the integrity of the upcoming elections and shield EC officials from harm.

  • NDC is not our enemy – EC

    NDC is not our enemy – EC

    The Director of Electoral Services at the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, has emphasized that the EC does not harbor any animosity towards the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    He noted that the NDC, being a key stakeholder in Ghana’s elections, frequently raises concerns when it perceives issues in electoral processes and procedures.

    In an interview on JoyNews Pulse on May 24, Dr. Quaicoe explained that once the EC addresses these concerns, the NDC moves past them and continues to engage constructively.

    He highlighted that such interactions are typical for political parties and should not be seen as personal attacks on individuals within the EC.

     “I want to put on record that the Electoral Commission and the NDC, we are not enemies. When you come and meet some of them, we all attended the same schools and we are nice….

    “Normally, they will come and make the allegations and we will come and refute them. Once we refute them, it ends the case. I believe some of them maybe, they don’t understand how  the system works, that is why they will make those allegations but we are not enemies with them,” he said.

    For weeks, the NDC and the EC have been engaged in intense exchanges over the NDC’s allegations of the theft of several Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) devices from the Commission’s offices.

    Initially, the EC denied these allegations but later admitted, albeit reluctantly, that some equipment was indeed missing.

    Despite this, the Commission assured the public that the incident would not impact the upcoming polls in any way.