According to Dr. George Asekere, a political scientist, the credibility of the December 2024 elections is non-negotiable.
Dr. Asekere emphasized that a credible electoral register is the backbone of a successful election, likening it to an engine essential for a vehicle to run.
A flawed register, he warned, could undermine the election’s integrity and lead to chaos.
“And so, it is the most important thing in every electoral process…without it, the entire state can collapse”.
“If there’s no integrity, and that is the perception of the masses, then someone could lose an election and still claim they were cheated. The public may believe it, and that could make the country ungovernable”.
Dr. George Asekere
In an interview with the Vaultz News, Dr. Asekere stated that electoral fraud or manipulation could disenfranchise voters and allow criminals to seize control through illegitimate means.
“The criticality of electoral integrity is a matter of life and death, survival and destruction”. – Dr. George Asekere
Dr. Asekere further stressed the importance of transparency in the electoral process, arguing that it would restore the Electoral Commission’s (EC) integrity and foster trust.
A lack of transparency, he noted, could fuel suspicions that the EC is colluding with political parties.
According to the political scientist, the EC must act as a neutral referee, ensuring that the will of the majority prevails without imposing its decisions.
EC Urged To Utilize Existing Mechanisms
Addressing the ongoing gridlock between the NDC and the EC, Dr. Asekere pointed out that the EC already has the tools it needs to engage political parties, such as the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).
He urged the Commission to build on existing procedures instead of trying to reinvent the wheel, and to make its activities public. “There should be nothing secret about public elections,” he stated.
Broadcasting EC engagements with parties, he said, would help rebuild trust.
“Go to the street and ask the people, and they’ll tell you they don’t trust the Commission.” – Dr. George Asekere
On the inclusion of independent candidates in Inter-Party Advisory Committee, Dr. Asekere emphasized that the constitution allows their participation, noting that they are stakeholders just like political parties.
As such, he reaffirmed that, “they must be there, and their views must be heard”.
He further stressed the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) and observer bodies in maintaining vigilance and ensuring the credibility of the elections.
Dr. Asekere indicated that while political parties have limited media accountability, CSOs must demand fairness, openness, and transparency.
He also called for international organizations to take an active role, warning that instability in Ghana could have broader regional and global implications.
Regarding the NDC’s concerns about vote transparency, Dr. Asekere suggested that the EC establish mechanisms to reassure citizens that their votes are being accurately counted.
He pointed out that suspicions only arise when political actors attempt to manipulate the process.
“Make sure that the people who voted are the ones whose ballots are counted. Then you declare it publicly for everyone to know”.
Dr. George Asekere
The Need For Constitutional Review Emphasized
To build public trust, Dr. George Asekere advocated for a constitutional review to ensure the independence of state institutions, free from government control.
He criticized the practice of political interference in institutions like the EC and the police, which undermines democracy.
“Make state institutions truly independent. When people don’t fear losing their jobs, they do their work well”.
Dr. George Asekere
He called for constitutional amendments to prevent unmerited appointments, which he believes are a major source of dysfunction.
Comparing Ghana to countries like the UK and the USA, he noted that the rule of law prevents government interference in state institutions.
Dr. Asekere also called for the EC to prioritize transparency by broadcasting its activities and reinstating its 24-hour public relations office, which previously allowed journalists to access information.
He further criticized the National Peace Council (NPC) for its lack of engagement, urging the council to become more active in maintaining peace.
He suggested that the NPC incorporate traditional and “sensible” religious leaders to revitalize its mission, as current members appear to view their roles as mere career opportunities rather than a noble calling.
“The most important thing that the NPC must do is to think and realize that if there is chaos in the country, it will be affected just like any other person. If that dawns on them they will sit up”.
Dr. George Asekere
Dr. Asekere also questioned the silence of the NPP on the voter register issue, suggesting that the government has a responsibility to ensure the integrity of the institution.
“The other thing is that, perhaps, the government is only benefiting from the current happenings”. – Dr. George Asekere
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