Joyce Bawah Mogtari, a Special Aide to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama, has expressed significant concerns regarding reported shortages of ballot papers in various constituencies within the Volta Region, specifically Keta, Ketu North, Ho Central, Hohoe, and Ho West. The situation grabbed public attention when the Electoral Commission (EC) acknowledged on November 28 that it was experiencing these shortages. Following this, the EC sought to clarify the matter during a press briefing on November 29, stating that the issue was not confined to the Volta Region alone and that they were actively managing the circumstances. However, the situation has raised flags among observers, including political figures like Mogtari, who view this development as indicative of underlying problems within the EC’s operational framework.
Mogtari did not hold back in her criticism of the EC, labeling the reported shortages as a clear sign of its inefficiency. Her apprehensions stem from a belief that the EC may not be capable of conducting a seamless electoral process, a sentiment that reverberates within her party and broader civil society. She indicated that the shortages could reflect deeper systemic issues rather than mere coincidences. This perspective adds a layer of complexity to the already fraught electoral landscape in Ghana as the country gears up for the upcoming December general elections, further compounding concerns among voters and stakeholders about the integrity of the electoral procedure.
During a recent engagement at the Legal Green Forum, attended by law students and practitioners, Mogtari underscored the grave importance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process. She urged the EC to address these identified issues promptly to maintain public confidence in the electoral system. Her insistence that the current crisis is not an isolated incident but rather part of a recurring pattern of inefficiencies underscores a growing distrust towards the EC’s commitment to an impartial electoral process. Mogtari’s statements also raise questions about the EC’s independence, pointing to the presence of various partisan figures within the Commission that she believes compromise its ability to operate fairly.
In highlighting the operational challenges faced by the EC, Mogtari noted reports from printing houses allegedly producing more ballot papers than necessary. This prompted her to reflect on the heightened vigilance among citizens, particularly from her party, in monitoring the actions of the EC. She argued that the ongoing scrutiny reflects a newfound awareness among Ghanaians regarding the potential biases and incompetencies of the Commission. Her perspective resonates with many within the NDC who feel that prior warnings about the EC’s capabilities have not been adequately addressed, creating a fertile ground for skepticism around its operations.
Amidst these challenges, Mogtari reaffirmed her party’s unwavering commitment to preserving the integrity of the upcoming elections. She emphasized that this election presents a critical opportunity for the NDC, as they believe that the electorate is yearning for change. Her assertions about having trained polling agents and their readiness for a potential victory serve to align their campaign strategy with the belief in an enthusiastic electoral base ready to take action on election day. This emphasizes the importance of organization and diligence within the party as they prepare for what many view as a pivotal moment in Ghana’s democratic journey.
In conclusion, the concerns surrounding ballot paper shortages in the Volta Region as articulated by Joyce Bawah Mogtari encapsulate a broader sentiment of distrust towards the EC as the nation approaches the December general elections. The call for improved transparency and accountability underscores the need for electoral bodies to demonstrate their effectiveness and independence. The NDC’s commitment to safeguarding electoral integrity illustrates their strategic focus ahead of the elections, aiming to mitigate public skepticism while striving for victory amid a challenging political landscape. As such, the upcoming elections will not only be a test of electoral logistics but also of the EC’s capacity to instill confidence in the electoral process.
