Socialist International to observe Elections 2008

Accra, June 15, GNA - ," Professor John Evans Atta Mills NDC Flag bearer for Elections 2008 on Friday invited the Socialist International, a political bloc with social democratic, socialist and labour parties ideologies across the world to observe Ghana's Elections 2008. "I am extending an invitation to the Socialist International to make it a point to send delegates to observe Ghana's parliamentary and presidential elections slated for early December 2008, Prof Mills said at the opening of the Africa regional meeting of SI in Accra. "The NDC would very much appreciate your presence as we are convinced that 2008 electoral process would surely see the NDC adding its name to the list of Socialist Democratic parties in government," Prof Mills noted.

The SI currently comprises 161 social democratic, socialist and labour parties and organisations from all continents. Foreign organisations, comprising the Commonwealth, European Union, National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, Organisation of African Unity, the United Nations, UNDP and Electa has observed Ghana's elections since 1996.

Others include the Danish Agency for International Development (DANIDA), Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) and the International Foundation for Election Systems (IFES). According to Electoral Commission's operational policy, election observers sign an undertaking that they would abide by the laws, regulations and code of conduct governing the elections. No observer shall be allowed access to any polling station or constituency centre unless he or she is wearing the official identification issued by the Commission. An observer shall not offer advice or give direction to or in any way interfere with an election official in the performance of his or her election duties.

In an interview with Ghana News Agency, Mr Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, NDC National Organiser said the presence of competent observers at elections is generally healthy in assessing the level of acceptability of results. Mr Ampofo noted the process for free, fair and peaceful election is next to a shared responsibility and the opposition would not shirk its part of that responsibility to protect the prevailing peace existing in the country.

"Those calling for peaceful elections have a stake in it, and we in opposition would play our part to realise this at all cost", he stated.

Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia NDC General Secretary lauded the party's contribution towards entrenchment of multi-party democracy in Ghana through the supervision of Elections in 1992, 1996 and 2000. "We initiated electoral reforms, established an independent Electoral Commission, and also gracefully handed over power to our opponents after we lost Elections 2000."

Recounting events in the past 15 years, Mr Asiedu Nketia said, "we had spent eight years in government and seven in opposition...which had not been easy as our opponents had resorted to political vindictiveness. "They branded everything NDC did in government evil, our leaders and officials are constantly been harassed by government operatives." The NDC General Secretary said the party had remained calm due to its avowed commitment to democratic principles, adding, "We know and the signs are there that we are coming back to government to redeem Ghanaians from bad governance". 15 June 07