Richard Dela Sky, a distinguished lawyer, has voiced deep concern over the ballot paper shortfall reported in parts of the Volta Region.
He emphasized that the Electoral Commission (EC) carries a critical responsibility to ensure absolute accuracy and efficiency throughout the electoral process.
According to Sky, this responsibility is fundamental to maintaining public trust in the integrity of the democratic system.
He urged the EC to address such lapses promptly and transparently to avoid eroding confidence in the credibility of the 2024 elections.
“That we have witnessed two significant missteps within a fortnight, particularly affecting opposition strongholds, raises grave concerns about the Commission’s procedural rigor and attention to detail.
“Whilst it is somewhat reassuring that the shortfall has been identified and remedial measures are underway, these missteps warrant a comprehensive investigation”.
Richard Dela Sky
Dela Sky further emphasized that, where necessary, sanctions should be considered and enforced in response to such oversights.
He argued that the Electoral Commission’s failure to address these issues effectively undermines the core principles of Ghana’s democracy.
These lapses, he stated, not only jeopardize the fairness of the election process but also threaten the public’s faith in the democratic institutions that uphold the nation’s constitutional values.
Consequently, he stressed that accountability is crucial to ensure the continued strength and credibility of Ghana’s electoral system. “Equally troubling is the whimsical and unacceptable directive concerning limits on media access”.
He also emphasized that the EC’s directive limiting media access must be formally and publicly rescinded immediately, without any conditions attached.
According to him, simply urging calm while claiming that consultations with stakeholders are underway is insufficient.
Dela Sky argued that the transparency and fairness of the electoral process demand that such restrictions be lifted without delay, as any delay in reversing the decision could further erode public confidence.
He stressed that the media plays a vital role in ensuring free and fair elections, and any effort to restrict its access undermines the democratic values that the election process is meant to uphold.
NDC Raises Concerns Over EC’s Avoidable Oversight
Furthermore, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) raised concerns following the acknowledgment of ballot shortfall by the Electoral Commission of Ghana.
According to Dr. Omane Boamah, the NDC’s Director of Elections and IT, the party activated its EagleEye team, which closely monitored the printing and packaging process at Act Commercial Printing House.
He noted that according to the team’s report, it is evident that the Electoral Commission has once again made a significant and avoidable mistake.
The NDC emphasized that this error could have been prevented with proper oversight and better planning, further eroding public trust in the Commission’s ability to manage the electoral process effectively and transparently.
“Our agents make it clear to us that the ballot statistics submitted to Act Commercial (print house) were complied with.
“This being the case, we call on the Electoral Commission not to sweep the cause of this avoidable error under the carpet”.
Dr. Omane Boamah
Omane Boamah expressed deep concern and skepticism over the repeated errors occurring in the Volta Region, the stronghold of the NDC.
He pointed out that the series of avoidable mistakes in this region are not only troubling but also highly suspicious.
Omane Boamah emphasized that the NDC remains vigilant and will continue to scrutinize the processes to ensure that the will of the people is not undermined. “The Electoral Commission must explain to Ghanaians how the shortfall occurred”.
In light of these concerns, the NDC stalwart stated that he would personally attend the IPAC meeting on 29th November 2024 to raise the issue of the ongoing electoral challenges in the Volta Region.
Omane Boamah expressed his determination to ensure that the plight of the region is given the urgent attention it deserves, calling for accountability and swift action from the Electoral Commission.
READ ALSO: Chad Ends Defense Pact With France, Eyes Sovereignty
