The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has recently announced a significant increase in the number of accreditations for media coverage during the collation of election results. The initial proposal set the number of media accreditations at a minimum of 3,308, but this has now escalated to 4,500. The Chairperson of the EC, Jean Mensa, made this announcement during a press conference held on November 29, 2024. This decision comes as a response to the growing demand for press access and aims to enhance media participation in the electoral process, especially during such a critical time.
During the press conference, Mensa emphasized the importance of collaboration between the EC and the media in ensuring transparency and accountability in the electoral process. She outlined that the EC is committed to facilitating media involvement before, during, and after the upcoming December General Election. The additional accreditation cards will be issued to two key organizations: the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and the Ghana Independent Broadcaster Association (GIBA). They will be responsible for the allocation and distribution of these cards, signaling a move towards a more open and inclusive media environment around the electoral collation process.
The EC has clarified that its earlier communication to regional directors, which proposed limits on the number of media representatives at collation centres, was not intended to restrict media access. Instead, it was meant to manage the logistics of media coverage in packed settings. The prior guidelines suggested that a limited number of TV and radio stations be allowed at each constituency and regional centre to ensure sufficient media presence without overcrowding. However, after discussions with the GJA and GIBA, the EC acknowledged the need for more media representation and decided to allocate additional accreditation based on their feedback.
The 4,500 accreditation cards represent an increase of 1,192 from the initially suggested number. This boost reflects the EC’s recognition of the role of the media in facilitating a transparent electoral process. The delivery of the accreditation cards to GJA and GIBA is scheduled for Sunday evening, marking a crucial step in gearing up for the election. By enhancing media access, the EC aims to foster a more well-informed public and allow for a wider array of coverage options that can better serve the electorate.
Furthermore, the decision to increase the number of accreditations can be seen as a strategic effort to build trust and integrity in the electoral process. Media coverage plays an essential role in disseminating information to the public and ensuring scrutiny of the electoral procedures. With more journalists present at collation centres, the EC hopes to minimize the potential for misinformation and create a more transparent atmosphere surrounding the vote counting and result announcement phases.
In conclusion, the EC’s adjustment to the media accreditation numbers highlights its commitment to an inclusive electoral process, strengthening partnerships with media organizations to enhance coverage and public trust. As the December General Election approaches, the focus on media participation emphasizes the significant role of journalism in supporting democracy and ensuring that citizens remain informed about their electoral rights and the workings of the electoral system. By allowing more media representatives to cover the collation process, the EC is taking proactive steps toward ensuring a fair and transparent electoral exercise.
