The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has raised significant concerns regarding the integrity of the electoral process in Ghana, particularly following the special voting exercise conducted on December 2. The coalition has specifically called on the Ghana Police Service to take firm action against distressing incidents such as vote-buying and the photographing of ballots. In a press statement released on December 3, CODEO expressed alarm over these violations, which they believe pose a severe threat to the credibility of the upcoming December 7 general elections. The coalition’s emphasis on the need for immediate measures highlights the urgency of addressing these electoral infractions before they potentially undermine the democratic process.
The statement from CODEO outlined several specific incidents of vote-buying and ballot photography that were reported during the special voting exercise. In particular, the coalition noted alarming occurrences in Weija-Gbawe, where individuals allegedly affiliated with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) were seen distributing cash to voters. Similarly, in Keta, party representatives were reported to have given money to voters in exchange for their electoral support. These incidents contribute to a worrisome narrative of electoral misconduct that CODEO believes needs to be addressed comprehensively by the authorities.
Moreover, CODEO also highlighted instances of ballot photography, which represents a severe violation of electoral regulations. Notably, in Navrongo Central, an electoral commission official and a police officer were reportedly apprehended for taking photographs of their own ballots. The coalition noted that such actions not only compromise the secrecy of the voting process but also potentially facilitate vote-buying schemes, where individuals may seek rewards for casting their votes in a specific manner. Additional reports from Bolgatanga Central, Ablekuma South, and Walewale suggested that some voters even photographed their ballots to claim monetary incentives, further illustrating the pervasive nature of these offenses.
In light of the reported violations, CODEO has urged the police to undertake thorough investigations and impose legal consequences on those involved in these unethical behaviors. The coalition insisted on the necessity for the police to keep the public informed about the outcomes of these investigations and any actions taken against offenders. By doing so, CODEO believes that not only would accountability be enforced, but it would also serve as a deterrent against future electoral offenses, thereby enhancing trust in the electoral process.
Additionally, CODEO has called for a collective response from the Electoral Commission (EC) and the National Election Security Task Force. The coalition emphasized the importance of issuing clear and stringent guidelines to presiding officers and security personnel on how to manage electoral offenses. Such directives would not only help in preventing similar occurrences during the December 7 elections but also restore faith in the integrity of the electoral system as a whole. By prioritizing education and awareness among election officials, CODEO believes that the likelihood of recurring violations can be significantly reduced.
In conclusion, the issues raised by CODEO underscore a critical juncture in Ghana’s electoral landscape, where the integrity of the democratic process is at stake. As the nation approaches the general elections, the need for decisive action against electoral malpractice cannot be overstated. With their call for rigorous police investigations and clearer guidelines for election officials, CODEO aims to fortify the electoral process against corruption and misconduct. It is crucial for voters, authorities, and all stakeholders to engage actively in safeguarding the democratic process, ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and transparently, and ultimately upholding the trust of the electorate in the system.
