The Electoral Commission (EC) has provided an updated overview of the Voters Register, delivering vital statistics that reflect the current state of the electorate in preparation for the forthcoming elections. As per the latest figures released by the EC, the total number of registered voters has reached 18,772,251. This figure includes 9,689,987 women and 9,082,264 men, indicating a notable gender distribution within the electorate. Particularly significant is the inclusion of 708,280 first-time voters, an essential metric for understanding the demographics of the voting population. Moreover, special voters, comprising security personnel and election officials, number 131,476, allowing for a comprehensive view of different segments of the electorate.
In addition to the overarching statistics, the EC has documented a total of 332,107 voter transfers, with 311,344 individuals officially listed on the transferred voters list. This reflects a dynamic electorate as individuals relocate or change their voting districts. Furthermore, the EC has recorded 2,142 names on the proxy voters list, highlighting the provisions in place for voters unable to cast their ballots in person. However, the report also unveils some irregularities that could impact the integrity of the voter registry. There are currently 33,536 names on the exception list, indicating issues that need to be addressed to ensure the register’s accuracy. Another area of concern is the 26,790 individuals listed for multiple registrations, which raises questions about the potential for dual voting.
The EC has also identified 1,273 individuals on the missing voters list, whose membership in the electoral process requires further verification. These discrepancies signal the importance of ongoing evaluations and updates to the Voters Register. During an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held in Accra on October 15, 2024, EC Chairperson Jean Mensa addressed these issues head-on. She stated that the revised Provisional Voters Register (PVR) exhibits considerable enhancements from the initial version presented during the exhibition exercise. The majority of discrepancies recorded have reportedly been rectified, indicating a proactive approach on the part of the EC to ensure a more reliable electoral process.
Chairperson Mensa also reaffirmed the EC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the voter register and ensuring that all eligible voters have the opportunity to participate in the electoral process. She assured stakeholders that the Commission has employed both technological solutions and thorough verification measures to enhance the accuracy of the information contained within the register. This statement reflects an emphasis on transparency and accountability, crucial factors in fostering public trust in the electoral process.
The EC’s ongoing efforts to clean up and maintain the integrity of the Voters Register are critical, especially as the nation approaches a pivotal electoral period. These initiatives not only cater to the administrative aspects of election preparation but also address the public’s concerns regarding electoral fairness and legitimacy. By working diligently to resolve discrepancies and ensure that the registry accurately reflects eligible voters, the EC aims to strengthen the participatory democratic process in the country. As the elections draw closer, the importance of an accurate and comprehensive Voters Register cannot be overstated, serving as the cornerstone of a fair electoral system.
