The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has revealed that there was a low presence of party agents from both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) at voter exhibition centers during the recent voter register exhibition exercise.
According to CODEO, its observers noted that NDC agents were present at only 15% of the centers, while NPP agents were seen at just 10% of the centers visited.
This revelation was part of a report issued by CODEO, which highlighted the significance of the voter exhibition exercise in identifying discrepancies and inaccuracies in the register.
The report, signed by CODEO’s National Coordinator Albert Kofi Arhin, emphasized that no agents from any other political parties were observed at the exhibition centers.
The exhibition exercise took place between August 20 and August 27, 2024, covering 405 centers across 45 constituencies in eight regions.
The exercise allows voters to verify their details in the register, providing an opportunity to correct errors and ensuring that the voter register remains accurate.
CODEO expressed concern over the low representation of party agents and called on political parties to take the process more seriously.
It noted that deploying agents to exhibition centers allows for grievances to be addressed early, thereby boosting public confidence in the electoral process.
The report also revealed that 80% of the centers visited by CODEO observers had Electoral Commission (EC) officials who provided clear instructions to voters on how to verify their details. Additionally, all centers allowed registered voters to check their names on the register, with no reports of harassment or intimidation during the process.
However, the report pointed out inconsistencies in the communication of voters’ rights to challenge or object to entries on the register.
CODEO has urged the EC to prioritize training for its officials to ensure consistent instructions at all centers, which is critical for maintaining the integrity of the voter register.
Looking ahead, CODEO encouraged the EC to enhance public awareness about future exhibition exercises and to take steps to ensure that the register is rid of ineligible names, including deceased individuals.
The coalition also emphasized the need for improved communication between the EC and the public, recommending the appointment of a communication specialist to address election-related concerns.
The report highlighted the importance of political party involvement in the exhibition process, urging all stakeholders, including aspiring candidates, to actively participate.
CODEO reiterated the need for transparency and accountability as the country prepares for the upcoming elections, pledging to continue monitoring the process and offering recommendations to ensure credible electoral activities in Ghana.
Additionally, CODEO took note of recent reports regarding the illegal transfer of voters and calls for a forensic audit of the voter register by the NDC.
It urged the EC to address these concerns transparently to build public trust in the electoral process.
Despite some challenges, the exhibition process was largely orderly, with uniformed security personnel present at 80% of the centers, providing a sense of safety and organization, according to CODEO observers.
