The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has rejected a request from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to broadcast live a meeting to discuss findings related to the Provisional Voters Register (PVR) ahead of the December 7 general elections. The NDC had requested a live broadcast to promote transparency in the discussion of discrepancies they identified in the PVR.
The NDC’s letter to the EC, dated September 4, 2024, with reference number NDC/HQ/E/69/VOL/30, outlined its concerns over the PVR’s content and called for the meeting to be aired live to the public. The NDC argued that broadcasting the meeting would ensure an open and transparent process, allowing the public to observe the discussions and decisions concerning the findings.
However, in its response, the EC declined the request, stating that the discrepancies raised by the NDC are not new and that a live broadcast is unnecessary. The EC assured the NDC that the Commission remains committed to “free, fair, transparent, peaceful, and credible elections” but does not find it appropriate to televise the meeting.
In the letter addressed to the NDC, the EC stated, “The discrepancies your party is raising are not new. The essence of the Voters Exhibition Exercise is to correct discrepancies in the Register. Such discrepancies include missing names, misplaced voters, and duplicate images, among others.”
The EC further explained that the identification of such discrepancies is not unusual and that it welcomes the NDC’s input to help ensure a credible voter register before the 2024 general elections. The Commission reiterated its readiness to meet with the NDC to discuss these issues at the agreed-upon time, without the need for a live broadcast.
The EC emphasized that the main purpose of the Voters Exhibition Exercise is to address and rectify any errors in the voters register, ensuring its accuracy and reliability for the upcoming elections. The Commission acknowledged the concerns raised by the NDC but maintained that they are part of the normal process of voter verification and correction.
The EC also underscored its commitment to working collaboratively with all political parties and stakeholders to ensure a transparent and credible electoral process. The Commission noted that while it does not support a live broadcast of the meeting, it is open to engaging with the NDC and other parties to address any issues or discrepancies that may arise.
In its communication, the EC reiterated its position that the current process of resolving discrepancies is adequate and that the exhibition exercise is designed to address such issues in a structured manner. The Commission reassured the public that it is fully dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure a free and fair election.
The EC’s decision has sparked a debate about the level of transparency needed in the electoral process. While some argue that a live broadcast would enhance public trust, others believe that the established processes and procedures are sufficient to ensure transparency and fairness.
The NDC, a major opposition party, has consistently raised concerns about the electoral process, urging for more openness and accountability. The party’s request for a live broadcast of the meeting on the PVR was part of its broader strategy to advocate for a fair and transparent electoral environment.
Despite the EC’s rejection of the live broadcast request, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the concerns of all political parties. It assured the public that the electoral process would be conducted with the highest standards of transparency and integrity.
As the December 7 elections draw closer, the EC continues to play a crucial role in ensuring that the electoral process is credible and that all eligible voters are correctly listed on the voters register. The Commission’s response to the NDC’s request highlights its approach to managing the electoral process and maintaining public confidence in its operations.
The ongoing discussions and engagements between the EC and political parties like the NDC are essential for upholding democratic principles and ensuring that the upcoming elections are conducted in a manner that is free, fair, and transparent.
