Amidst escalating pressure, a diverse range of stakeholders and groups are intensifying their calls for the Electoral Commission (EC) to extend the limited voter registration period, citing the need for greater inclusivity and participation in the democratic process.
The limited voter registration exercise, which began on May 7, is currently scheduled to conclude on Monday, May 27, 2024.
Nevertheless, political parties and civil society organizations are urging the Electoral Commission to consider an extension of the deadline to ensure maximum participation.
Furthermore, traditional leaders from the five regions of the North have joined the chorus of voices calling for an extension, adding their weight to the growing demands for a longer registration period.
As such, Tandawura Alhaji Mohammed Amin, spokesperson for the Northern chiefs, appealed to the Electoral Commission (EC) to reassess the registration process and implement measures that guarantee the inclusion of all eligible voters, ensuring a more comprehensive and representative electoral roll.
“It was our expectation that the EC would appraise the personnel and equipment needs of each registration center and deploy staff and equipment commensurate to the expected turnout at each center”.
Tandawura Alhaji Mohammed Amin
Moreover, the traditional leaders recommended that the EC implement a long-term solution by introducing electoral reforms that include the adoption of a continuous voter registration system.
This ensures that the electoral roll remains up-to-date and inclusive, and allows citizens to register and participate in the democratic process at any time.
Tandawura Alhaji Mohammed Amin noted that by implementing a continuous registration system, eligible Ghanaians turning 18 can easily register at designated EC offices.
He emphasized that the EC must extend the ongoing registration timeline to accommodate more citizens, ensuring a more comprehensive and representative voter roll.
NPC Cautions EC On Independence
Meanwhile, the National Peace Council (NPC) cautioned the Electoral Commission (EC) to exercise its independence judiciously and avoid any actions that could be perceived as exploiting its autonomy, as the nation prepares for the December elections.
The Council emphasized that the EC must be receptive to input and suggestions from diverse stakeholders, fostering a collaborative approach to ensure the polls are conducted in a manner that is free, fair, and transparent, and that reflects the will of the people.
Malvi Mohammed Bin Salih, a member of the Peace Council, cautioned the EC that history will hold it accountable if it fails to heed suggestions and something goes awry in the upcoming polls.
He stressed that the EC’s independence should not be used as a shield to disregard constructive input and compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
“Independent they are, yes. But that doesn’t stop them from listening to Ghanaians, listening to the wisdom of our elders, and so on and so forth. They should not, under any circumstances, hide behind the independence to refuse to consult and listen”.
Malvi Mohammed Bin Salih
Furthermore, Mr. Bin Salih emphasized that if the EC ensures a free, fair, and transparent election, it will not only unite the country but also elevate Ghana to a position of peace, stability, and progress, serving as a shining example for the continent and the world at large.
However, he cautioned that if the EC fails to discharge its duties responsibly, it risks plunging Ghana into chaos, and emphasized that the Commission will be judged by posterity if its actions or inactions lead to national instability and disunity.
The National Peace Council’s comments come in response to the Electoral Commission’s decision to stick to the original timeline for the limited voter registration exercise, citing feasibility concerns, despite widespread appeals from stakeholders to extend the deadline.
The Commission’s current stance contradicts its earlier commitment to flexibility, where it had agreed to extend the registration timeline if circumstances warranted it.
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