The recently concluded voter registration exercise in Ghana, supervised by the Electoral Commission (EC), has raised more questions than answers.
Despite the EC’s efforts to ensure a successful exercise, several challenges and errors marred the process, casting doubts on the commission’s ability to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections in 2024.
Firstly, the EC’s failure to account for the missing Biometric Voter registration kits(BVR/Ds) before the exercise commenced was a red flag. This oversight compromised the integrity of the process and created an environment conducive to fraud.
Furthermore, the EC made two unpardonable errors, which they admitted to and corrected, but not before causing unnecessary tension and mistrust. Such mistakes, occurring not once but twice, demonstrate a lack of attention to detail and a cavalier attitude towards the limited voter registration exercise.
Moreover, reports of fake registration ID cards being used to register ineligible voters in areas like Pusiga are alarming. This fraudulent activity undermines the credibility of the entire exercise and raises questions about the EC’s ability to safeguard the electoral process.
The EC’s decision to use Coral Draw software for tabulation of registration figures and the subsequent shift to Excel sheets with an apology is laughable. This lack of professionalism and technical expertise is unacceptable and erodes trust in the commission’s ability to manage the impending 2024 elections.
Additionally, the incessant breakdown of Biometric Voter Registration kits in some registration centers at the beginning of the exercise is a clear indication of poor planning and inadequate logistics. This led to frustration and disenfranchisement of eligible voters, further compromising the exercise’s integrity.
The EC’s decision to establish registration centers at their district offices, rather than at polling stations or electoral areas, made accessibility extremely difficult for voters. This move, seemingly designed to limit participation, is a clear violation of the principles of inclusivity and accessibility.
Lastly, the absence of clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as inclusivity, accessibility, comprehensiveness, transparency, and completeness, to ensure and guarantee free, fair, and transparent elections in 2024, is a glaring omission.
The EC’s failure to prioritize these essential metrics raises concerns about their commitment to conducting credible elections on 7th December, 2024.
In conclusion, the Electoral Commission’s management of the recent voter registration exercise has been marred by errors, oversights, and a lack of professionalism. To restore trust and ensure the integrity of the electoral process,
the EC must take concrete steps to address these challenges and prioritize inclusivity, accessibility, transparency, and completeness in all aspects of the electoral process. Anything less would be a disservice to the people of Ghana and a threat to the country’s democratic credentials.
Ahmed M. Gedel
Former Technical Political Advisor (Biometric) IPAC and UNDP- representative Ghana.
SNR. Accessibility Clerk officer.
New York State Board of Elections.
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