Ghanaians must safeguard integrity of electoral register – IFES

The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) has called on all Ghanaians to uphold the integrity and credibility of the electoral register, stressing that the responsibility should not be left solely in the hands of politicians.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Ashaiman, Gilbert Sam, the senior elections specialist at IFES, emphasized the importance of citizens taking an active role in the electoral process to ensure transparency ahead of the 2024 general elections.

Sam noted that the electoral register is the foundation of any credible election, adding that it was essential that all Ghanaians, not just politicians, take responsibility for its integrity.

“When citizens are vigilant and involved, it reduces the chances of manipulation and ensures that the process is transparent,” he stated.

He further urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to collaborate closely with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, political parties, and the media, to eliminate any negative perceptions surrounding the voters’ register.

According to him, such collaboration would promote transparency and foster trust in the system, adding that the EC must work together with stakeholders to dismiss any misconceptions.

“Open communication and continuous engagement with the public will help build confidence and ensure that the register is seen as credible,” he stressed.

He noted that any doubts cast on the electoral roll could potentially undermine the credibility of the upcoming elections and therefore called for proactive measures to address concerns from all quarters.

“With the 2024 elections approaching, it is crucial that any concerns about the register are addressed promptly and transparently to avoid disputes or mistrust in the final outcome. We cannot afford to have elections marred by controversy over something as fundamental as the voters’ roll,” he added.

Sam commended the recent efforts by the EC to clean up the electoral register but stressed that more public education was needed to ensure that citizens understand the process and its significance.

He reiterated the IFES’ commitment to supporting Ghana’s electoral process, adding that all stakeholders, including the general public, must play their part to safeguard the country’s democracy.