In a bold move to safeguard the sanctity of the upcoming December 2024 elections in the country, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has announced its intention to deploy covert and investigation operatives across the nation.
The primary objective of this deployment is to monitor, suppress, and repress election malpractices, both before, during, and after the elections. In its ‘Half Yearly Report’ released on July 11, 2024, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) announced significant measures to ensure the integrity of the forthcoming general elections.
“All officers charged with the counting of votes at the polling stations, collation centres, and the transmission of the outcome of the elections are admonished that it is a grave offence to wilfully falsify the account of the votes or make a false return of the votes.”
Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP)
The OSP’s actions are guided by the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959) and the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). Specifically, sections 79 of Act 959 and sections 256 and 258 of Act 29 outline the legal framework within which the OSP operates. These provisions empower the OSP to take comprehensive measures to ensure free and fair elections.
The report emphasized the seriousness of wilfully falsifying the account of votes or making false returns, highlighting that it is a grave offence. It also notified the public about the prohibition of corruption, intimidation, and personation in respect of the elections.
“No person is permitted to influence the conduct of a voter in respect of the elections by a threat of an evil consequence to be caused to the voter or any other person. In addition, it is unlawful to impersonate a voter or an electoral officer.”
Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP)
Consequences for Electoral Offences
The OSP report also detailed the severe penalties for those found guilty of electoral offences.
“A person who is found liable for any of these acts shall be banned from voting at a public election for a period of seven years,” the report stated.
Additionally, individuals convicted of such offences will be disqualified from holding public office or being eligible for election as President or a Member of Parliament.
This stringent enforcement is aimed at upholding the sanctity of the electoral process and deterring potential offenders from engaging in illegal activities.
The OSP called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to the elections. By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, the OSP aims to create an environment where free and fair elections can thrive.
The OSP’s half-yearly report underscored its unwavering dedication to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, and its commitment to upholding the rule of law and democratic principles in the Fourth Republic.
To bolster its efforts, the OSP highlighted collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and electoral bodies. This collaborative approach is intended to create a robust framework for monitoring and addressing election-related offences.
The OSP’s strategy includes real-time monitoring and rapid response mechanisms to address any incidents of malpractice as they arise. This comprehensive approach is designed to ensure that any attempts to subvert the electoral process are promptly and effectively countered.
As Ghana approaches the 2024 December elections, the OSP’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining electoral integrity. The deployment of covert operatives and the stringent enforcement of legal provisions are vital components of this effort.
The OSP’s commitment to transparency and accountability is a testament to its dedication to protecting the democratic process. By taking these proactive measures, the OSP aims to ensure that the 2024 December elections are conducted in a free, fair, and credible manner.
The OSP’s announcement marks a significant step in safeguarding the integrity of Ghana’s electoral process. The deployment of covert operatives, backed by a robust legal framework, underscores the OSP’s unwavering commitment to combating electoral malpractice and ensuring that the will of the people is respected.
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