The Electoral Commission (EC) says the current voter’s register is not flawless and should not be considered final as mandated processes to clean it up are ongoing..
This statement was made in response to growing concerns from political parties, civil society organisations, and the public regarding the accuracy of the voter’s roll ahead of the 2024 general elections.
At an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday, October 1, EC Chairperson Jean Mensa explained that the register is still undergoing updates as part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to ensure a transparent and fair electoral process.
She emphasised that the current version is provisional, with opportunities for corrections during the exhibition process, where the public can raise claims and objections.
Madam Mensa also responded to calls from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for a forensic audit of the voter’s register, alleging discrepancies.
While she acknowledged their concerns, she stated that the NDC’s demand was premature.
However, she assured that the EC remains open to scrutiny and will work with stakeholders to enhance the register’s accuracy, but stressed that the commission will maintain its independence and integrity throughout the process.
The EC Chairperson reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to ensuring a transparent and fair election, encouraging political parties and the public to stay engaged and cooperative as preparations for the 2024 elections continue.
She reassured that all necessary steps will be taken to finalize the voter’s roll with accuracy and fairness.
“The NDC presented 5 category of issues with the register. The commission demanded of the NDC to present further evidence from the NDC but assured them that those issues are typical of every voter’s register, and it is what the exhibition exercise aim to unearth and fix it. Unfortunately, the NDC has still not presented any more evidence to the EC.”
“It is for these reasons that this IPAC meeting has been organised to enable all parties to present any evidence on discrepancies in the voters register, but it must be noted that the current register is not perfect, and not final,” she stated.
Source: Richard Nana Appiah Kubi/Ahotoronline.com