On the dawn of a significant electoral process in Ghana, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Madam Jean Mensa, made a momentous address to the nation and the media, emphasizing transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability.
The speech, delivered at the opening of the National Collation Centre, underscored a paradigm shift in the commission’s engagement with media and citizens, setting a new benchmark for electoral transparency. She stated;
“Indeed, we thank God for making this day possible. And as Reverend said, this is indeed the day that the Lord has made. We rejoice and we are glad in it.
Jean Mensa Chairperson of the Electoral Commission
The Chairperson highlighted that the 2024 elections marked a historic moment in Ghana’s democratic journey.
She noted that, for the first time, the media had been granted access to all polling stations, constituency collation centers, regional collation centers, and the National Collation Centre.
Jean Mensa reflected on past practices, where media access was restricted. She remarked;
“In all elections since the inception of the 4th Republic in 1992, the media have been granted access only when the declaration is being made at the National Collation Centre. Today, this has changed.”
The change, she explained, was part of the commission’s commitment to transparency and a recognition of the media’s role as a vital stakeholder in the electoral process.
The Chairperson announced that the commission had accredited 10,000 media personnel to cover all aspects of the elections. She emphasized;
“This is a testament to the values that the commission holds dear—values of transparency, accountability, integrity, inclusiveness, and responsiveness.”
Jean Mensa Chairperson of the Electoral Commission
By granting such extensive access, the commission aims to ensure that the media provides verified, real-time information to the public, fostering trust and reducing suspicion.
Strengthening Trust and Stability
“We believe that by enabling our media partners to cover all aspects of our work, we will inject the needed transparency into all aspects of our work. This would provide the citizenry with vital information and help eliminate and reduce completely the suspicions that had hitherto characterized our work.”
Jean Mensa Chairperson of the Electoral Commission
She further noted that such measures would contribute to the peace and stability of the nation. Addressing citizens directly, Jean Mensa called for active participation in the electoral process.
“We encourage our citizens to call that number. We have able men and women behind the telephones, and they are willing and ready to take any issues or concerns you have to enable us to address this in a timely manner.”
Jean Mensa Chairperson of the Electoral Commission
She also emphasized the commission’s commitment to making its processes accessible to all, enabling citizens to follow electoral activities from the comfort of their homes. Sharing updates from the field, Jean Mensa noted;
“Reports reaching us indicate that the elections are proceeding well across the length and breadth of this country. And we are confident that the good Lord who has started this process, this good process, will bring it to a good and expected end in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Jean Mensa Chairperson of the Electoral Commission
We declare the National Collation Centre opened in the name of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.”
Expressing gratitude to all stakeholders, she prayed for the continued growth. She concluded with the words; “May God bless our homeland Ghana and make His beloved nation great and strong. Thank you.”
Jean Mensa’s address reflects a bold step by the Electoral Commission to deepen transparency and inclusivity in Ghana’s electoral process.
By granting unprecedented media access and emphasizing citizen engagement, the commission aims to enhance public trust and reinforce the foundations of Ghana’s democracy.
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