There is growing concern regarding the handling of electoral data by the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana as the country gears up for the critical December 7th elections. Critics argue that the EC’s recent actions—or lack thereof—compromise the credibility of the electoral process. Specifically, the Commission has faced criticism for failing to adhere to the calendar discussed at the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meetings, resulting in conflicting information and delays regarding election data.
The EC had committed to conducting a comprehensive voter exhibition exercise and providing political parties with a reliable register ahead of the December elections. However, Dr. Rashid Tanko-Computer, Deputy Director of Elections IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), voiced concerns during the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Alex Nana Dogbey. He emphasized that timely release of electronic data is crucial for the NDC to validate voter information and prevent issues like gerrymandering.
Dr. Tanko-Computer stressed that the EC is constitutionally obligated to act as an independent body, ensuring all relevant information is accessible to stakeholders for a fair electoral process. He also criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP), accusing them of colluding with the EC to skew the election results in favor of the ruling party.
This follows the NDC’s recent demand for the immediate release of the provisional voter register. Dr. Omane Boamah, NDC’s Director of Elections, has expressed frustration over the delay, attributing it to the EC’s alleged incompetence and a possible deliberate attempt to provide a sub-standard register to political parties. Boamah warned that such delays could potentially destabilize Ghana if not addressed promptly.
In response, Dr. Serebuor Quaicoe, Director of Training at the EC, defended the Commission’s actions during an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM. He reassured stakeholders that the EC is working within legal parameters and that the provisional register will be of high quality. Quaicoe explained that the EC is required by law to compile the provisional register within 90 days of data collection, and while there have been delays, the final register will be made available after the exhibition process.
The EC has announced that the provisional voter register will be released to political parties on Friday, August 16. This announcement comes in the wake of mounting pressure from the NDC and other stakeholders, who have called for transparency and timely access to the electoral data to ensure a fair election process.
Story by: Alexander Kukah
