As Ghana’s democracy reaches a critical juncture, the Civic Forum Initiative (CFI) has stressed that stakeholders must prioritize peace, stability, and electoral integrity for the greater good.

CFI urged calm and constructive dialogue among stakeholders, emphasizing the need for transparent solutions that reinforce democratic strength.

CFI highlighted the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) concerns regarding discrepancies in the 2024 Voters’ Register, which, if unaddressed, could erode electoral credibility and public trust.

“These concerns have prompted the NDC to demand a forensic audit of the 2024 Voters’ Register, believing that only a comprehensive investigation can restore their faith in the register”.

“The Civic Forum Initiative (CFI), consisting of key Civil Society Organizations, including the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), after an emergency meeting…wishes to share its considered opinion on the ongoing impasse between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Electoral Commission (EC)”.
Civic Forum Initiative (CFI)

CFI further stated that The Electoral Commission (EC) emphasizes that completing the voter register is a necessary procedural step before conducting an audit, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process

The Initiative pointed out the Commission’s request to stakeholders to remain patient and cooperative, assuring them that any discrepancies will be thoroughly addressed upon completion of the process.

CFI also acknowledged that the NDC is proceeding with a nationwide protest today, September 17, 2024, seeking a thorough examination of the voter register, amid concerns over its credibility, despite EC’s guarantees.

According to the Initiative, today’s demonstration aims to amplify the demand for a thorough examination of the voter register, ensuring its credibility and integrity ahead of the 2024 elections.

The NDC, as a key stakeholder in Ghana’s electoral process, has a legitimate right to demand a reliable and accurate voter register, according to the Civic Forum Initiative (CFI).

The Initiative acknowledged the potential risks associated with large-scale demonstrations, especially in today’s politically charged climate, and urges caution.

To mitigate these risks, CFI appeals to the NDC and protest organizers to prioritize peaceful and lawful demonstrations.

“The safety of all Ghanaians must be the top priority, and any actions that could incite violence or unrest must be avoided at all costs” – CFI

Call for Collaboration and Peaceful Protests

The Civic Forum Initiative urged the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to collaborate closely with protest organizers.

CFI indicated that this partnership is crucial to ensure the demonstrations remain peaceful and lawfully managed.

The Civic Forum Initiative emphasized that protecting the right to peaceful protest while maintaining public safety and order is absolutely crucial.

“The integrity of the voters’ register is not merely a political issue it is a matter of protecting the democratic rights of every Ghanaian citizen. We therefore urge the EC to act expeditiously and transparently in the finalization of the register. This function is crucial to reinforcing public confidence in the performance of its role”.

“As the Civic Forum Initiative, we believe that the impasse between the NDC and the EC can be resolved without confrontation. Instead, it requires sincere and constructive dialogue between all stakeholders involved”.
Civic Forum Initiative (CFI)

CFI further advocated for the Electoral Commission’s commitment to a thorough, independent audit of the voter register upon its completion, guaranteeing the integrity of the electoral process.

The Initiative appealed to all stakeholders to put the nation’s interest first and collaborate towards ensuring peaceful, credible, and inclusive presidential and parliamentary elections.

The Civic Forum Initiative reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peaceful and credible elections, ensuring a free and fair democratic process as a civil society organization.

“We stand ready to assist in any way possible to ensure that the 9 consecutive presidential and parliamentary elections will strengthen Ghana as the beacon of multiparty democracy in West Africa”.
Civic Forum Initiative (CFI)