“It must be noted that the current register is not perfect, and not final” – EC to IPAC

The Electoral Commission (EC) has insisted that since required procedures to clean it up are still in progress, the present voter registration is not perfect and shouldn’t be regarded as final.

Ahead of the general elections in 2024, political parties, civil society organizations, and the general public began to express increasing worries about the voter rolls’ accuracy. In response, this statement was released.

The EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa, stated during a Tuesday, October 1 Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting that the register is currently being updated as part of the Commission’s continuous efforts to guarantee a fair and transparent election process.

She emphasized that the present version is only a provisional and that there would be chances for modifications during the exhibition period, when the public may voice concerns and complaints.

In addition, Madam Mensa addressed the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) requests for a forensic audit of the voter registration, citing inconsistencies.

She said the NDC’s demand was too soon enough, even if she understood their worries.

She emphasized that the commission will uphold its independence and integrity throughout the process, but she also gave assurances that the EC is still transparent and willing to collaborate with interested parties to improve the accuracy of the register.

The EC Chairperson emphasized the commission’s resolve to delivering a transparent and fair election, encouraging political parties and the public to be involved and cooperative as preparations for the 2024 elections continue.

She gave her word that all essential measures will be taken to ensure accuracy and impartiality in the voter roll’s finalization.

“The NDC presented 5 category of issues with the register. The commission demanded of the NDC to present further evidence from the NDC but assured them that those issues are typical of every voter’s register, and it is what the exhibition exercise aim to unearth and fix it. Unfortunately, the NDC has still not presented any more evidence to the EC.”

“It is for these reasons that this IPAC meeting has been organised to enable all parties to present any evidence on discrepancies in the voters register, but it must be noted that the current register is not perfect, and not final,” Jean Mensa said.

Source: Ghanatodayonline.com