Electoral Commission of Ghana (ECG) has been cautioned against yielding to pressure from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) regarding the appointment of Returning Officers, Deputy Returning Officers, and the selection of Electoral Areas for the upcoming May voter registration exercise.
This caution, directed specifically at Dr. Bossman Asare, a key figure within the Electoral Commission, emphasizes the need for impartiality and transparency in the electoral process.
The NDC through its Director of Elections and IT, Dr Edward Omane Baoamh served this warning in a statement posted on his Facebook on Tuesday, March 19, 2024
”Concerns have been raised about potential interference from political parties, particularly the NPP, in the operations of the Electoral Commission.
There are fears that the NPP may attempt to influence the selection of personnel and electoral areas to gain an advantage in the registration process” the statement said.
The NDC warning comes amidst allegations of undue influence and attempts to manipulate the electoral process in favour of the ruling party.
The statement said observers are closely monitoring the actions of the Electoral Commission to ensure that the integrity of the registration exercise is upheld.
”It is emphasized that District Electoral Commission Officers should be allowed to carry out their duties independently, without external interference or pressure.
Any attempts to dictate the appointment of personnel or the selection of electoral areas could undermine the credibility of the registration process, he said.
The Electoral Commission is urged to prioritize fairness, transparency, and adherence to electoral regulations to maintain public trust and confidence in the electoral system.
The stakes are high, and any perception of bias or favouritism could have far-reaching consequences for the democratic process in Ghana, he further warned.
Source: classfmonline.com