The Electoral Commission (EC) has released the provisional voter register for the upcoming 2024 elections, marking the start of a critical public exhibition period from August 20 to 27, 2024. This exercise aims to provide an opportunity for political parties and the general public to verify the accuracy of the voter list and challenge any questionable entries.
Ensuring Transparency in the Voter Registration Process
During a press conference held at the EC headquarters, Dr. Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairman in charge of Corporate Services, emphasized the importance of adhering to the established timeline for the distribution of the provisional register. According to Dr. Asare, the release of the register is in compliance with Regulation 22 of CI 31, as amended by CI 126, which mandates that the provisional register be provided to political parties within three months following the end of the voter registration period.
The limited voter registration exercise concluded on May 29, 2024, with a subsequent mop-up registration finishing on August 3, 2024. Dr. Asare confirmed that the EC is on track to meet its deadline, ensuring that the provisional register is distributed by the end of August 2024. Furthermore, external drives containing the register have already been made available to political parties, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) among those who have retrieved their copies.
Public Engagement and Verification Process
The public exhibition of the voter register, scheduled from August 20 to 27, 2024, is a crucial part of the electoral process. This period allows citizens to confirm their details on the register and report any discrepancies or ineligible voters. In addition, Dr. Asare encouraged all eligible voters to participate in the exercise, highlighting its significance in maintaining the integrity of the upcoming elections.
During the exhibition, aspiring candidates and their supporters can scrutinize the voter list and file challenges against entries they believe are ineligible. This process is essential for ensuring that only qualified voters are included in the final register, thereby preventing any potential electoral fraud.
Looking Ahead to a Transparent Election
As Ghana prepares for the 2024 elections, the EC’s efforts to provide a transparent and accountable voter registration process are evident in the timely release of the provisional register. However, the week-long exhibition period serves as an important step in confirming the accuracy of the voter list, reinforcing public confidence in the electoral system.
With political parties already in possession of the provisional register, the focus now shifts to the public’s engagement in the verification process. Moreover, the EC continues to urge all citizens to take advantage of this opportunity to ensure their information is correct and that the electoral roll accurately reflects the eligible voting population.
The upcoming elections will be closely watched, and the success of this voter verification exercise will play a significant role in shaping the credibility of the electoral process
Source: Graphic Online
