Election 2016: I can’t be influenced - EC boss

The chairperson of the Electoral Commission Mrs. Charlotte Osei has stressed she cannot be induced to rig the December 7 election in favour of a particular political party.

Speaking in an interview with the BBC, Thursday, Mrs. Osei emphasised, “it’s impossible to influence me” because the processes are transparent and inclusive.

According to her, she does not solely run the Electoral Commission and cannot take unilateral decision on polling day because elections involve different layers of people.

“We are going to work with 146, 000 people on election day. The parties have agents at the polling stations… it’s really impossible because of the transparent process,” the EC boss opined.

Touching on the pressures and criticism that come with the job, Mrs. Osei confessed “it’s not an easy job when you are a woman.”

She said: “It’s a job that requires you to take a difficult decision.”

The former National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) boss has come under a barrage of criticism since taking up the role a year ago. Some have alleged she exchanged sex for her position – an allegation she has rubbished.

Mrs. Osei noted “it’s expected” as a woman, describing it as “global and comes with the challenges.”

However, Mrs. Osei stated she has had immense support from family and friends, especially her husband “who knows it is not going to be easy.”

She encouraged women occupying high ranking positions never to give up because they always serve as role models for the upcoming ones in society.