The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana is conducting special voting today, December 5, 2024, in the Eastern and Western regions as part of preparations for the December 7 general elections. This exercise is a rescheduled event, following the postponement of the original plan to hold the special voting in these regions on Monday, December 2, 2024.
The decision to reschedule arose during an emergency Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting convened by the EC on Sunday, December 1, 2024. The meeting was prompted by the discovery of a defaced ballot paper intended for destruction found outside the Checkpoint Printing House. Although the defaced ballot was unrelated to the materials designated for the elections, its presence raised concerns about the integrity of the printing process.
While no issues were reported with the ballot materials for the Western Region, the printing house responsible for the Eastern Region’s ballots had also printed those for the Western Region. To eliminate any doubts and safeguard the credibility of the election, the EC opted to recall and reprint the ballot papers for both regions.
The reprinted materials were delivered to the respective regions on Wednesday, December 4, ensuring readiness for the voting exercise today. Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, assured all stakeholders that the necessary steps had been taken to preserve the integrity of the electoral process. She reaffirmed the EC’s unwavering commitment to transparency, fairness, and credibility in the execution of its mandate.
Special voting is an essential component of Ghana’s electoral process, designed to accommodate groups such as election officials, security personnel, and media practitioners who will be on duty on election day. This arrangement ensures that these key stakeholders can perform their election-day responsibilities without being disenfranchised. The exercise was successfully conducted in 14 other regions on December 2, leaving the Eastern and Western regions as the final locations for this process.
Polls in the two regions opened at 7:00 AM and will close at 5:00 PM. Only individuals whose names appear in the Special Voters Register are eligible to participate. To ensure transparency and accuracy, biometric verification systems are being used throughout the voting process.
The EC has emphasized the importance of adherence to voting guidelines and has called on participants to maintain peace and order during the exercise. The Commission has also assured the public that all votes cast during the special voting will be securely handled. After the polls close, the ballot boxes will be sealed and transported to the EC’s offices in the respective regions, where they will remain under strict security until the general counting commences on December 7.
The postponement and subsequent rescheduling of the special voting exercise have demonstrated the EC’s proactive approach to addressing potential challenges. By taking swift action to recall and reprint the ballot materials, the Commission has reinforced its commitment to ensuring a credible and transparent electoral process. This move has been widely acknowledged as a necessary step to protect the integrity of the elections and maintain public trust in the electoral system.
Today’s special voting exercise serves as a crucial preparatory stage for the general elections. It not only provides an opportunity for designated groups to fulfill their civic duties but also serves as a test of the EC’s logistical readiness and operational efficiency. The successful conduct of this exercise is expected to bolster confidence in the overall electoral process, reassuring voters of the Commission’s dedication to upholding democratic principles.
As Ghana prepares for the December 7 elections, the EC continues to engage stakeholders and the public to ensure a peaceful and orderly process. The Commission has called on political parties, civil society organizations, and citizens to collaborate in fostering an environment conducive to free, fair, and credible elections.
The special voting exercise in the Eastern and Western regions is a testament to the EC’s resolve to deliver on its mandate despite challenges. By addressing concerns promptly and transparently, the Commission has set a positive tone for the upcoming elections, highlighting the importance of integrity and accountability in democratic governance.
Votes cast today will contribute to the overall outcome of the December 7 elections, reflecting the voices of those who play critical roles in the electoral process. The EC’s efforts to facilitate participation for all eligible voters, including those engaged in essential election-day duties, underscore its commitment to inclusivity and fairness.
As the day progresses, attention will remain on the smooth conduct of the special voting exercise. The EC’s meticulous planning and execution are expected to pave the way for a successful general election, ensuring that every Ghanaian voter has the opportunity to make their voice heard in shaping the nation’s future.
Today’s rescheduled special voting marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s electoral calendar, setting the stage for a peaceful and credible general election. The nation eagerly anticipates the culmination of this democratic process on December 7, as citizens head to the polls to elect their leaders.
