By: Justice Appiah
A civil Society Organization, Election Watch Ghana says it is appalled by the EC’s egregious, undemocratic decision to release a compromised, error-ridden voter register, despite possessing an authentic, error-free version.
The group believes that decision was a deliberate attempt to test the waters and gauge the reaction of Ghanaians is a cynical ploy to undermine the electoral process.
In a press statement released on Tuesday September 3, 2024 the Civil Society Organization further indicated that it has taken note of the press conference held by Deputy EC Chair Bossman Asare on September 2, 2024, and wishes to respond to the blatant attempts to deceive the Ghanaian public with a reprehensible, manipulated voter register.
“We condemn the EC’s brazen, unconstitutional scheme to manipulate the electoral process and subvert the democratic rights of the Ghanaian people. We will forever reject any register that is not fit for purpose and will do everything within our power to ensure that the integrity of the electoral process is upheld,” the statement added.
Election Watch Ghana also stressed that the peace of the country lies in the hands of the Electoral Commission and that violence would only erupt when the commission fails to discharge its mandate satisfactorily.
“We want to make it clear to the EC that the peace of this country lies in their hands. History has shown that violence only erupts when the electoral process and final results are not satisfactory to the people, not just political parties. We implore the EC to put aside their selfish, partisan interests and prioritize the peace and stability of Ghana.”
“We want the EC chair to remember that their actions have consequences and that the fate of this nation rests on their shoulders,” the statement further stressed.
The Civil Society Organization called on the electoral commission to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and fairness in the electoral process, lest they face the wrath of the people.
It reiterated its demand for the authentic, error-free register and warns the EC that any further attempts to compromise the electoral process will be met with fierce resistance.
“We will mobilize the masses, use every legal avenue available, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable”.
The era of electoral manipulation is over. Ghana deserves better, and we will fight tooth and nail to ensure that our democracy is protected,” it added.