The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has raised significant concerns regarding the impartiality of the Electoral Commission (EC) ahead of the December 7 general elections, announcing their intention to thoroughly investigate the appointments made by the Commission. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the NDC’s Director of Elections and IT, took to social media on November 26 to emphasize the party’s determination to hold the EC accountable for any perceived bias in its personnel selections. He highlighted the necessity for election officials—such as presiding officers and ballot issuers—to be non-partisan to maintain the integrity of the electoral process, assembling a strategy to identify and eliminate any officials considered to have ties to the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In his post, Dr. Boamah warned that NDC’s scrutiny of the appointed election officials is crucial given the historical context where instances of favoritism allegedly influenced the conduct of elections. He referenced the recent Ejisu by-election as a case study where party loyalty appeared to override neutrality, specifically noting that individuals who held positions as NPP polling station executives were directly involved as EC polling officials. This precedent has incited concerns within the NDC, strengthening their resolve to safeguard the electoral process against repeated biases that could compromise the quality of the elections.
To address these issues proactively, the NDC has undertaken a systematic approach by preparing detailed lists of NPP delegates. They intend to juxtapose this documentation against the EC’s forthcoming list of appointed officials, which remains unpublished at the moment. This planned cross-referencing is aimed at exposing any identified partisan appointees, which the NDC believes could endanger the fairness of the upcoming elections. Dr. Boamah’s initiatives are presented not only as a preventive measure but also as a call for accountability from the EC, urging the Commission to adhere to established legal frameworks regarding the publication of election officials.
Regulation 19(6) of Constitutional Instrument 127 (CI 127) underscores the EC’s obligation to disclose the identities of election officials in advance of voting day. As the deadline approaches, Dr. Boamah emphasizes the importance of timely disclosure to avoid justifications for retaining non-neutral personnel within the electoral system. His concerns signal a broader apprehension about the implications of delayed publication and its potential to obstruct the removal of any partisan individuals engaged in election management.
The NDC’s proactive stance reflects a deep-rooted commitment to ensuring a transparent and equitable electoral process. By mobilizing data-driven strategies and utilizing legal avenues, they seek to illuminate and rectify any discrepancies in the EC’s appointments. Dr. Boamah’s insistence on professionalism and non-partisanship among election officials highlights the party’s priorities as the December elections draw near, while also advocating for an electoral process that is devoid of partisan influence.
Ultimately, the NDC’s commitment to vigilance over the EC’s appointments signifies an essential engagement with democratic processes in Ghana. By addressing potential conflicts ahead of the November elections, the NDC aims to reinforce their position as defenders of free and fair elections. The call for accountability and transparency serves to not only bolster public confidence in the electoral system but also engages the electoral body in a critical dialogue about its role and responsibilities within the broader democratic framework. As the election date approaches, the NDC’s actions highlight the significance of monitoring electoral integrity and ensuring that the values of democracy are upheld in Ghana’s political landscape.
