CDD deploys first batch of pre-election observers

Accra, March 14, GNA - The Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) in collaboration with Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has deployed the first batch of 20 pre-election observers throughout the country to begin a nine-month watch of all preparatory activities preceding election 2008.

The observers who have been trained on major pre-election activities are expected to monitor pre-election environment from randomly selected electoral districts and constituencies across the country.

Mr Justice V.C.R.A.C. Crabbe, Chairman, CODEO Advisory Council, who signed a statement by the CDD, said the major electoral activities to be observed included the Electoral Commission's programmes on replacement of lost, torn or defaced voter identity cards as well as revision of the register.

They would also observe congresses and meetings by political parties in selecting Presidential and Parliamentary Candidates and report on campaigns.

Mr Justice Crabbe said CODEO and CDD would provide periodic reports on findings by the observers in the various districts and constituencies to the public through the media and a fuller pre-election observation report would be issued at the end of the general elections. The CODEO and CDD expressed concern about the limited programme for civic and voter education towards the upcoming elections and therefore called on the EC, National Commission for Civic Education, political parties and the media to create adequate awareness about activities prior to the elections.

"We further call on the political parties, the media and the public to remain calm and give the Electoral Commission the opportunity to address the current concerns about the state of the 2006 voters' register," the statement said. 14 March 08