The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana, under the leadership of its Chairperson, Mrs. Jean Adukwei Mensa, has given the nation its strongest assurance yet about the smooth conduct of the December 7, 2024, general elections.
According to Mrs. Mensa, all election materials and equipment have been distributed in sufficient quantities across the country to ensure a seamless process. She emphasized that no shortages are anticipated, showcasing the commission’s meticulous planning and preparedness.
“This is my final engagement with the media before election day, and I want to assure Ghanaians that we are fully ready. We don’t anticipate any shortage of materials or equipment in any part of the country,” Mrs. Mensa said during the briefing. Her statement comes as a relief to many, particularly voters who expect a well-organized election devoid of logistical challenges.
For this year’s election, a total of 18,774,159 registered voters—representing 55 percent of the nation’s population—are expected to participate. This significant figure underscores the high stakes of the elections, which will determine the leadership of Ghana for the next four years. Mrs. Mensa stressed that the EC is committed to ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to exercise their democratic right in an environment of peace and transparency.
Reflecting on the special voting exercise conducted earlier, Mrs. Mensa described it as highly successful. The exercise, which allowed security personnel, media representatives, and other essential workers to vote ahead of the general populace, recorded an impressive turnout. According to the EC chairperson, the lowest turnout recorded during this exercise was 83 percent, a clear indication of the public’s enthusiasm and the commission’s efficiency in managing the process.
Mrs. Mensa extended her gratitude to all participants in the special voting exercise, emphasizing that their cooperation was vital to its success. She noted that the smooth conduct of the exercise serves as a preview of what the public can expect on December 7. “The high voter turnout and the orderly conduct of the special voting exercise give us confidence in our preparations for the main election,” she stated.
The EC has also placed significant focus on the role of the media in the upcoming elections. To facilitate comprehensive coverage, the commission has issued nearly 10,000 accreditations to journalists, granting them access to polling stations, constituency collation centers, and regional hubs. Mrs. Mensa urged the media to rise to the occasion by reporting responsibly, accurately, and truthfully.
“The media plays a critical role in shaping public perception and ensuring transparency. I encourage all accredited journalists to use their platforms to provide factual and unbiased information. Rise to the task and cover elections accurately and truthfully,” she stated. Her remarks highlighted the delicate balance journalists must strike between informing the public and maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
In addition to media engagement, the EC has collaborated with local and international election observers to enhance transparency and credibility. Over 20,000 observers have been accredited for this year’s elections, making it one of the most closely monitored polls in Ghana’s history. To facilitate their work, the commission has provided these observers with detailed maps to help them locate polling centers across the country.
Mrs. Mensa acknowledged the critical role observers play in ensuring accountability during the electoral process. She expressed confidence that their presence would bolster public trust and deter any attempts at malpractice. “Observers are an integral part of our electoral process. Their work contributes to the credibility of our elections, and we are committed to providing them with the resources they need to perform their duties effectively,” she remarked.
Addressing the general public, Mrs. Mensa called for patience, cooperation, and adherence to the rules on election day. She emphasized that the EC had implemented extensive measures to prevent delays and ensure a smooth voting experience. However, she also appealed to voters to remain calm and orderly, even in the face of minor inconveniences.
“The success of this election does not depend on the Electoral Commission alone. It is a collective responsibility. I urge all Ghanaians to approach December 7 with a sense of duty and commitment to peace,” she said. Her appeal echoed the sentiments of many stakeholders who have called for peaceful elections.
Mrs. Mensa also took time to commend the hard work and dedication of the EC staff and volunteers. She acknowledged the challenges they had faced in organizing an election of this magnitude but expressed confidence in their ability to deliver a successful outcome. “Our team has worked tirelessly to prepare for these elections, and I am proud of their efforts. Their commitment reflects the values of this commission and our collective dedication to Ghana’s democracy,” she stated.
With just a few days to go, the nation is gearing up for what promises to be a pivotal election. The EC’s assurances of preparedness have provided a sense of confidence and anticipation among voters. For many, this election represents not just a democratic exercise but a reaffirmation of Ghana’s commitment to peace, transparency, and progress.
As Ghanaians head to the polls, the Electoral Commission remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the sanctity of the ballot. Through meticulous planning, effective stakeholder engagement, and a focus on transparency, the commission is poised to deliver an electoral process that reflects the aspirations of millions.
