With Ghana’s December 7 elections just hours away, the Electoral Commission (EC) has expressed optimism about the readiness of the nation to head to the polls. During her final press engagement before election day, the EC chairperson, Mrs. Jean Adukwei Mensa, highlighted the Commission’s preparedness, emphasizing the successful distribution of election materials, the high turnout during the special voting exercise, and the accreditation provided to observers and media personnel.
Speaking to the media, Mrs. Mensa reassured Ghanaians of the Commission’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and efficient electoral process. She confidently stated, “We do not anticipate any shortage of election materials or equipment in any part of the country.” According to her, all materials have been distributed in adequate quantities to the various regions, a move aimed at averting any logistical challenges that could disrupt voting.
This year’s elections will see 18,774,159 registered voters, representing approximately 55 percent of the population, casting their votes in what is expected to be one of the most critical electoral moments in the country’s history. Mrs. Mensa reiterated the EC’s pledge to provide a credible, transparent, and peaceful election.
One of the key milestones leading up to election day was the special voting exercise held earlier in the week. According to the EC chairperson, the exercise was not only successful but also recorded an impressive voter turnout. The lowest turnout recorded at any polling station was 83 percent, a figure Mrs. Mensa described as “highly encouraging and a testament to the commitment of Ghanaians to participate in the democratic process.”
The special voting exercise was designed to allow individuals such as security personnel, electoral officials, and media practitioners who will be engaged on election day to cast their votes ahead of time. Mrs. Mensa praised the smooth conduct of the exercise and expressed optimism that the same level of efficiency would be replicated during the general voting process.
Addressing media accreditation, Mrs. Mensa disclosed that the Commission had issued close to 10,000 accreditations to journalists across the country. This provision is intended to grant media personnel access to polling stations, constituency collation centers, and regional collation centers. She urged journalists to perform their duties with professionalism and integrity.
“Use your lenses, pens, and platforms to provide citizens with accurate and truthful information. Rise to the task and cover these elections with honesty and precision,” she encouraged. Mrs. Mensa emphasized the critical role of the media in fostering transparency and accountability during the elections, calling on journalists to be vigilant and report objectively.
Observers, both local and international, have also been granted accreditation by the EC. Mrs. Mensa revealed that over 20,000 observers have been accredited to monitor the electoral process. To facilitate their movements, the Commission has provided them with maps to help locate polling stations across the country. This initiative underscores the EC’s commitment to ensuring a free and fair electoral process that meets both national and international standards.
As the clock ticks toward December 7, the EC chairperson reassured voters of their safety during the elections. She noted that security arrangements had been thoroughly planned to ensure the safety of voters, election officials, and all stakeholders involved in the process.
“We want to assure all Ghanaians that their safety is guaranteed. Voters should go to their polling stations and cast their ballots without fear or intimidation,” she said.
The EC’s comprehensive preparations have been complemented by calls for peace from various quarters, including political parties and civil society organizations. Both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have been commended by the police for conducting peaceful campaigns.
Ghana’s elections have historically been a model for democratic transitions in Africa, and the 2024 polls are expected to uphold this reputation. As the nation prepares to head to the polls, the Electoral Commission’s emphasis on transparency, inclusivity, and professionalism serves as a strong foundation for a credible electoral process.
Mrs. Mensa concluded her address by urging all eligible voters to participate in the elections, emphasizing the importance of every individual’s voice in shaping the country’s future. With all systems in place, Ghana is poised for yet another historic election, showcasing the resilience and vibrancy of its democracy.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0