The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has acknowledged the technical challenges that disrupted the first day of the limited voter registration exercise currently taking place across the nation.
Originally scheduled to begin at 7 a.m., the registration process encountered delays due to the late arrival of registration equipment, network connectivity issues, and power outages (dumsor). In response to these challenges, the Commission issued a statement on Tuesday, May 7, stating that “following our monitoring of the Voters Registration Exercise this morning, we observed some technical challenges with internet connectivity in a number of our Centres.”
The statement further highlighted that the technical issues were resolved in most registration centers by 12pm, allowing the registration exercise to proceed smoothly. The EC assured the public that they will continue to monitor the registration process and promptly address any further issues that may arise.
The EC aims to register approximately 623,000 first-time voters during this 21-day exercise, which began on May 7 and is set to conclude on May 27, 2024. In addition to the 258 district offices, the Commission has established 785 additional centers to accommodate individuals facing difficulties accessing the district offices. Furthermore, 25 public universities have been designated as registration centers.
Chairperson of the EC, Jean Mensah, emphasized the importance of compiling a credible voter register for the upcoming December 7 national elections. She stressed that a transparent election is contingent upon a reliable voter register and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to delivering credible and transparent electoral processes.
Speaking at a news conference in Accra on May 6, Jean Mensah reiterated the EC’s dedication to ensuring a fair and peaceful election. She emphasized, “It is well known that the voters register is a bedrock of an election.
Without a credible and accurate voter register, there can be no transparent and acceptable elections.” The EC is determined to uphold these standards as Ghana prepares for the 2024 elections.
