Dr. Bossman Asare, the Deputy Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC) overseeing Corporate Services, recently addressed concerns regarding ballot paper shortages ahead of the 2024 general elections. During an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on November 29, he emphasized that the EC should not be solely blamed for the discrepancies observed in the ballot papers. He acknowledged the human element inherent in the electoral process, stating that while the Commission conducts thorough checks, mistakes can still occur. Dr. Asare articulated that the presence of party agents during the electoral process means shared responsibility, indicating that consent among stakeholders is crucial in navigating such challenges.
The backdrop for Dr. Asare’s remarks was an outbreak of reports detailing ballot paper shortages in constituencies within the Volta Region. This issue was attributed to errors made by Acts Commercial, the printing company tasked with producing the election materials. However, in a crucial clarification, Dr. Asare pointed out that such discrepancies were not confined solely to the Volta and Bono Regions, countering the narrative that these areas faced unique challenges. He highlighted that similar issues had been reported by Regional Directors across multiple regions, including Greater Accra, Western North, Upper West, Western, and Bono East Regions.
Further elaborating on the operational dynamics, Dr. Asare noted that these discrepancies were recognized and reported in a timely manner by the EC’s Regional Directors. This statement underscores the proactive measures taken by the EC in addressing unforeseen operational challenges. He affirmed that following the identification of the ballot paper issues, reprinting efforts were promptly instituted, with the political parties involved being kept in the loop throughout the process.
In addressing potential public concerns, Dr. Asare assured citizens that despite the setbacks, the EC remains committed to ensuring that all necessary materials are in place before the December 7 elections. This commitment to transparency and readiness reflects the Commission’s dedication to its mandate, as well as its mission to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. It is critical, according to Dr. Asare, that the electorate maintains confidence in the EC’s ability to administer fair and equitable elections.
The discourse surrounding the elections also recognizes the overall importance of collaboration between the EC and political entities. By emphasizing shared accountability among stakeholders, Dr. Asare’s statements aim to foster a sense of unity in addressing any logistical hiccups that may arise during the electoral process. He reminded parties of the collective responsibility involved in overseeing the proper execution of electoral duties to mitigate future issues.
Finally, as Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections, it is clear that the EC is actively working to resolve any challenges ahead of time. Dr. Asare’s insights and clarifications serve to assure the public and involved parties that the Commission is aware of the potential pitfalls and is in the process of implementing solutions to safeguard the integrity of the elections. With continued cooperation and transparency, the EC aspires to achieve smooth and successful electoral proceedings.
