The Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has called for the implementation of standardized procedures to rectify errors in election results. This would enhance transparency and credibility in Ghana’s electoral system.
During a public dialogue on electoral reforms in Kumasi, Kojo Pumpuni Asante, Director of Advocacy and Policy Engagement at CDD-Ghana, emphasized the need for a uniform approach to addressing mistakes encountered at polling stations and collation centres.
Pumpuni Asante stated, “Currently, the absence of a legal framework for error correction allows discretionary actions by officials, leading to confusion and inconsistencies.”
He urged the Electoral Commission to provide explicit directives outlining precise procedures for error rectification, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and procedures are uniformly applied.
The discussion, funded by the European Union, also addressed concerns regarding the military’s role in election security. Pumpuni Asante stressed the importance of defining the military’s involvement to prevent potential voter intimidation and maintain a fair electoral environment.
“In past elections, the presence of military personnel at polling stations raised concerns of intimidation,” he noted. “We need a structured election security architecture that delineates roles to avoid overlaps and undue influence.”
Reflecting on Ghana’s electoral reforms since 1992, Pumpuni Asante acknowledged progress but emphasized the ongoing need for improvements in transparency and integrity to prevent political crises and uphold democratic principles.
“The quality of elections is fundamental to democracy,” he affirmed. “Sustained improvements are essential to uphold universal suffrage, fair competition, and transparency.”
CDD-Ghana’s advocacy underscores efforts towards achieving credible, violence-free elections in Ghana through systematic reforms and stakeholder engagement.
