The Chairperson of Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, has once again declined the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) demand for a forensic audit of the 2024 provisional voter’s register.
Speaking at an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, Mrs. Mensa reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, citing the EC’s constitutional mandate to oversee elections.
Mrs. Mensa called for political parties and stakeholders to trust the Commission’s ability to conduct its work without the need for external interference.
“As a body mandated by Article 45 (a) of the 1992 Constitution to compile the register of voters and to revise it at such periods as determined by law, we urge you all to trust us to perform our functions as enshrined in the Constitution,” Mrs. Mensa emphasized.
Mrs. Mensa urged all stakeholders, including the NDC, to rely on the Commission’s established processes to address any issues or concerns regarding the voter register.
“The Commission has a track record and is globally respected for delivering free, fair, credible, and transparent elections, and this includes the compilation of the provisional voter’s register,” she reiterated.
The NDC had initially called for a forensic audit of the 2024 provisional voter’s register, citing alleged inconsistencies and discrepancies that, according to them, needed independent scrutiny. These concerns, however, were not elaborated on by the party during the IPAC meeting.
The party’s stance reflects their growing apprehension about the integrity of the electoral process as the country gears up for the 2024 general elections.
In response, Mrs. Mensa countered that the EC has robust systems in place to ensure the accuracy of the voter’s register. She explained that the provisional register undergoes continuous scrutiny and revision through established processes, such as the re-exhibition of the register online.
“Our staff are well-trained and have the capacity and competencies as well as the skills to undertake the task of producing the final and credible voter’s register. We certainly do not require external assistance in our line of work.”
Jean Mensa, Chairperson of Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC)
Ongoing Revisions to the Voter’s Register
Despite the Commission’s confidence in its internal processes, Jean Mensa acknowledged that the provisional voter register, like any other, is not without flaws.
She noted that the EC had already addressed the majority of discrepancies flagged by political parties, including the NDC, and that work is ongoing to resolve any outstanding issues.
“The voter’s register is not entirely flawless, but the Commission has taken significant steps to rectify the identified errors. These errors are not unusual, and all it takes are conscientious efforts to get them resolved.”
Jean Mensa, Chairperson of Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC)
The EC Chairperson reassured stakeholders that efforts to fine-tune the register are ongoing as the Commission prepares for the 2024 general elections. She urged political parties to remain patient and continue cooperating with the EC throughout the process.
“You will realize that the voter’s register for today is different from what was provided to the parties in August,” Mrs. Mensa pointed out, noting that the revisions are part of the Commission’s routine work to ensure accuracy.
In her concluding remarks, Jean Mensa emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among political parties and stakeholders. She urged all parties to work with the Commission in good faith to ensure that the 2024 general elections are conducted smoothly and transparently.
“We remain committed to an open and inclusive electoral process and welcome feedback and cooperation from all parties as we prepare for the 2024 elections,” she said.
Mrs. Mensa called on the public to place their trust in the EC, reassuring them that the Commission is dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that every eligible voter is accurately captured in the final register.
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