Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, who holds the position of Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has expressed significant apprehension regarding the Electoral Commission’s (EC) readiness for the forthcoming elections. His remarks, conveyed through a Facebook post on November 2, spotlight several issues impairing the ballot printing process, thus raising doubts about the EC’s logistical capabilities. Dr. Boamah specifically criticized Innolink Printing Company, recalling its involvement in the 2020 elections, during which excessive ballot papers were discovered in its facilities, illuminating the risks of printing errors that could adversely impact the current electoral process. This concern serves as a prelude to questioning the overall adequacy of the EC’s preparations for the impending national polls.
Dr. Boamah’s critique extends to the performance of other printing companies engaged by the EC. He pointed out the challenges faced by YASARKO Printing, which failed to meet its obligations under their ballot printing contract, ultimately culminating in the cancellation of its agreement by the EC. The NDC’s early alerts regarding the inadequacies in YASARKO’s operations underscore a broader theme of mismanagement within the EC’s logistics. Additionally, he cited Checkpoint Printing as another company that has struggled to fulfill its contract, particularly regarding ballots intended for the Central Region, thus delaying essential deliveries and hindering the election timeline. These issues raise grave concerns about the capacity of these companies to meet the electoral demands without complications.
The issues surrounding ballot printing extend to FONSTAT Printing Company, which is accused of mishandling serial numbers on ballots, introducing further complexities in the election process. Such errors can lead to significant procedural setbacks, coupled with the potential for undermining public confidence in the electoral integrity. In another instance, Ghana Publishing Company faced machinery breakdowns during a night shift, further complicating an already troubled printing phase. The recurring theme in these disruptions illustrates not just individual failings but also a systemic issue within the EC’s framework for managing electoral logistics.
Dr. Boamah’s statements suggest an overarching discontent with the state of preparation within the EC, leading him to question the agency’s overall readiness for the December polls. He posed critical inquiries about the capacity of the EC to manage elections efficiently, raising fundamental doubts about whether the commission can execute the electoral process without significant hitches. The pattern of inefficiency reflected in the recent incidents indicates precarious conditions for a smooth electoral experience, prompting serious consideration of the implications for transparency and the public’s trust in the electoral process.
Despite the challenges outlined, the NDC remains dedicated to ensuring an open and transparent election, as portrayed through their #EAGLEEYES initiative. This project reflects the party’s commitment to monitoring the electoral process vigilantly, aiming to provide oversight until their candidate, John Dramani Mahama, secures victory. The vigilance demonstrated by the NDC showcases an awareness of potential pitfalls in the electoral process and emphasizes the importance of accountability to uphold democratic principles.
In conclusion, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah’s comments highlight critical concerns surrounding the electoral preparedness of the EC, with substantial implications for the upcoming elections. The multitude of issues identified regarding ballot printing, alongside concerns over the capacity of contracted companies, signals a potential crisis in electoral management. The NDC’s commitment to transparency through active monitoring underscores the vital role of oversight in ensuring that democratic processes are executed fairly and efficiently. As the nation approaches the elections, these challenges must be addressed promptly to bolster public confidence and the integrity of the electoral system.
