A joint press conference was held by the Center for Conflict Resolution-Ghana and other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to express concern over the Electoral Commission of Ghana’s (EC) decision to deny them accreditation as observers for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
Adib Saani, Executive Director of Jatikay Centre For Human Security and Peace Building addressed the media on behalf of the group.
According to Mr Saani, the Electoral Commission’s decision is deemed unjustified, lacking basis or justification, and raised critical questions about the commission’s commitment to an open and democratic electoral process. The letter from the EC, signed by Chairperson Jean Mensa, simply stated that the commission was “unable to accept your application at this time” without providing further explanation.
This move has sparked concerns about the EC’s transparency and accountability. The CSOs posed several questions to the Electoral Commission, including:
Basis for Denial: On what grounds is the EC withholding accreditation to CSOs for the 2024 elections?
Impact on Credibility: Does the EC acknowledge that this move would
heighten public scepticism and reduce the credibility of the electoral process?
Alternative Mechanisms: What mechanisms has the EC put in place to ensure a free and fair election in the absence of CSO observers?
The CSOs emphasized that the deployment of observers is crucial for ensuring transparency and credibility in the electoral process. The denial of accreditation undermines the legitimacy of the election results and threatens the peace and security of the nation.
The group urged the Electoral Commission to rescind its decision and grant accreditation to all qualified CSOs that have applied to deploy observers during the 2024 elections. This decision has far-reaching consequences, not only for the state but also for the EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa.
As Ghana prepares for its general elections on December 7, 2024, the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the electoral process cannot be overstated. The EC’s decision on accreditation will be closely watched, and its implications may shape the outcome of the elections.
By Kingsley Asiedu
