As Ghana gears up for its general elections on December 7, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation and a renewed call for transparency in the electoral process. Apexnewsgh reports
In a remarkable initiative, the Electoral Commission (EC) has opened its doors to journalists, inviting them to witness the crucial ballot printing process at three key facilities: Inolink Printing Limited, Buck Press, and Acts Commercial. This unprecedented move aims to bolster public confidence in the integrity of the elections.
Dr. Benjamin Bannor-Bio, the EC’s Director of Electoral Services, expressed the commission’s unwavering commitment to transparency, stating, “When we say transparency and accountability are in motion, we don’t just say it, but we mean it.” This initiative is part of the EC’s broader efforts to ensure an open and secure electoral process, showcasing the institution’s resolve to uphold the democratic values of the nation.
Currently engaged in the printing of parliamentary ballots, the EC faces a slight delay in the production of presidential ballots, which has been pushed back by 10 days following the passing of Akua Donkor, the flagbearer for the Ghana Freedom Party.
Despite this setback, Dr. Bannor-Bio proudly noted that Ghana is among the few countries in the sub-region capable of printing its own ballot papers, a testament to the EC’s dedication to maintaining control over the electoral process.
The ballot printing operation is characterized by several key features aimed at ensuring rigorous oversight. Representatives from various political parties are present at every stage of the printing, actively verifying important details such as serial numbers and the quantities designated for each constituency. This collaborative effort serves to dispel any notions of secrecy, underscoring the EC’s commitment to an open process.
In a further step to reinforce transparency, party agents are allowed to place their own seals on the batches of ballots, meticulously maintaining records alongside those of the EC. “Apart from the electoral commission seal, they add their seal and take records of the same. So, in printing ballot papers, there is no secrecy; it’s so transparent,” Dr. Bannor-Bio emphasized. This dual record-keeping system is designed to foster trust among stakeholders, ensuring that everyone involved is accountable.
By enabling journalists to observe the ballot printing process, the EC is sending a powerful message to the public: Ghana’s elections will not only be transparent but also accountable and secure. As the nation heads toward an important electoral date, the commitment of the EC to maintain the integrity of the electoral process stands as a beacon of hope for all Ghanaians.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
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