The National Chairman of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Mr. Samson Asaki Awingobit, has made a significant appeal to the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana to change its approach to presidential results collation in the upcoming elections on December 7. During the launch of Class Media Group’s (CMG) election coverage, he emphasized the need for transparency in the electoral process. Awingobit specifically urged the EC, under Madam Jean Mensa, to refrain from using the traditional “strong room” for the aggregation of results. He points out that the strong room has been a source of skepticism in previous elections, suggesting that its use has opened avenues for potential manipulation and has diminished public trust in the election outcomes.
Awingobit advocates for a more transparent alternative, proposing the projection of real-time results on large screens for public viewing as they are reported. His call for transparency stems from the belief that an open process would effectively mitigate the current suspicions surrounding electoral results. The PNC Chairman articulated his views at the CMG event held at CTV’s premises in Labone, Accra, where the media organization introduced its election programming, termed the ‘Election Strong Room.’ This innovative coverage aims to provide Ghanaians with timely updates across a variety of media platforms, ensuring citizens remain informed about the electoral process until the EC announces the official results.
CMG’s comprehensive election coverage will unfold across several platforms including multiple FM radio stations in Accra, Kumasi, Ho, Takoradi, and Sunyani, as well as their television channel, CTV, and online at ClassFMonline.com. This widespread dissemination of information is designed to keep the electorate engaged and informed throughout the election period. Awingobit’s remarks signify a larger movement towards embracing transparency in Ghana’s democratic processes, especially in the realm of electoral integrity, which is vital for fostering trust among the electorate.
The strong room, as described by Awingobit, diminishes electoral transparency and has contributed to a prevalent misconception about clandestine dealings occurring outside the public eye. He believes that moving away from this tradition in favor of publicly accessible result projections could reinforce the integrity of the electoral process. Awingobit further argues that such transparency would not only build confidence among voters but also potentially reduce disputes related to the results of the elections, which often arise during the critical period leading up to the announcement of a winner.
In light of Ghana’s political history, Awingobit’s appeal for a shift towards more visible and open processes represents an urgent call for reform. By eliminating the strong room concept, he contends that the EC can create an environment where the electoral outcomes are less likely to be contested, particularly during the emotionally charged moments of result declaration. The emphasis on transparency and public visibility remains paramount to restoring faith in the electoral system and ensuring that the voice of the electorate is not only heard but is confidently counted.
Overall, Mr. Samson Asaki Awingobit’s call to the Electoral Commission reflects a broader societal desire for accountability and transparency in electoral processes. His push for real-time result projections symbolizes a significant modification in how elections are conducted in Ghana, highlighting the modernization of electoral practices to foster greater public trust. As the December elections approach, the role of the media, embodied by Class Media Group’s efforts, will be crucial in ensuring that voters remain engaged and well-informed, ultimately contributing to a healthier democratic process in the nation.
