The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has issued a timely call for peace and adherence to legal processes in the wake of Ghana’s recent elections. With tensions simmering over disputed parliamentary results, CODEO’s plea underscores the importance of upholding democratic principles and respecting the rule of law to safeguard the nation’s stability. This call to action is directed at all stakeholders, encompassing political actors, the Electoral Commission, security agencies, the judiciary, and civil society organizations. CODEO emphasizes the need for all parties to engage in constructive dialogue and resolve any electoral disagreements through established legal channels, thereby preventing any escalation of tensions that could jeopardize the country’s peaceful transition of power.
CODEO’s statement, released on December 24, 2024, arrives at a crucial juncture in Ghana’s post-election landscape. The declaration of some parliamentary results has sparked controversy and fueled anxieties, creating a potentially volatile environment. By urging all stakeholders to prioritize constitutional processes and peaceful dispute resolution, CODEO aims to mitigate the risk of unrest and ensure a smooth transition of power. The organization’s emphasis on the rule of law is a critical reminder of the importance of respecting established legal frameworks in resolving electoral disputes. This commitment to due process is essential for maintaining public trust in the electoral system and preserving the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions.
In response to the post-election challenges, CODEO has launched a comprehensive nationwide observation initiative. This initiative involves deploying 20 trained citizen observers across the country to meticulously monitor the behavior of key stakeholders and ensure transparency in the ongoing electoral processes. This proactive measure demonstrates CODEO’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and holding all involved parties accountable. The observers, deployed from December 22, 2024, to January 23, 2025, will play a vital role in providing an independent assessment of the post-election environment and identifying any potential threats to peace and stability.
The observers’ mandate extends beyond simply monitoring the conduct of political actors. They are also tasked with scrutinizing adherence to constitutional procedures, ensuring that all actions taken during this sensitive period align with the legal framework governing the electoral process. This comprehensive approach reflects CODEO’s determination to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure a fair and transparent resolution to any electoral disputes. The timing of the observation mission is strategically aligned with the upcoming swearing-in of the President-elect on January 7, 2025, underscoring the importance of maintaining stability during this crucial transition period.
The specific focus areas of the observers include monitoring electoral disputes, observing the conduct of political actors, and ensuring adherence to constitutional procedures. This targeted approach allows for a comprehensive assessment of the post-election landscape and facilitates early identification of potential flashpoints. By closely examining these key areas, CODEO aims to provide timely and accurate information to relevant authorities, enabling them to take proactive measures to prevent any escalation of tensions. The observers will also document any instances of irregularities or violations, providing valuable evidence for potential legal challenges.
Mr. Albert Arhin, National Coordinator of CODEO, has reiterated the organization’s unwavering commitment to promoting credible and transparent elections in Ghana. He emphasized that the observation effort is designed to maintain a conducive electoral space characterized by peace, stability, and national unity. This commitment reflects CODEO’s long-standing role as a champion of democratic values and its dedication to ensuring that the electoral process reflects the will of the people. By maintaining a vigilant presence throughout the post-election period, CODEO aims to contribute to a peaceful and democratic transition of power, reinforcing trust in Ghana’s democratic institutions.
