Voters Register Meeting Shrouded In Secrecy: EC Rejects NDC’s Request For live Broadcast

The Electoral Commission (EC) has rejected the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) request to broadcast a meeting on the voters register live on national television.

The meeting, scheduled for September 6, 2024, aims to discuss the voters register, a critical component of Ghana’s electoral process.

The NDC had sought to have the meeting broadcast live to ensure transparency and trust in the process. The party argued that a live broadcast would allow citizens to witness firsthand the discussions and decisions made regarding the voters register, thereby promoting accountability and confidence in the electoral system.

However, the EC declined the request in a letter, stating that the meeting is a technical engagement with stakeholders and not a public forum. The letter, signed by EC’s Deputy Chairman in charge of Operations, Samuel Tettey, explained that a comprehensive report on the meeting’s outcomes would be provided instead.

The EC’s decision comes amid concerns over the accuracy and credibility of the voters register, with the NDC pushing for a forensic audit to address discrepancies and irregularities. The party claims that the current register contains errors and omissions that could compromise the integrity of future elections.

The NDC’s request for a live broadcast was seen as an attempt to ensure that the EC’s actions are transparent and subject to public scrutiny.

However, the EC’s refusal has raised questions about the commission’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

The meeting is expected to bring together stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and electoral experts, to discuss the voters register and address concerns raised by the NDC and other stakeholders.* Despite the EC’s decision, the NDC has vowed to continue pushing for transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

By Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy