The New Force Movement, led by Nana Kwame Bediako, has raised concerns about the restrictive voter registration access for the upcoming 2024 general elections in Ghana.
The group highlighted a significant decrease in the number of voter registration points, from over 33,000 in previous elections to just 1,068 centers, representing a mere 3 percent of the total polling stations in 2020.
In a statement released on Friday, May 17, the New Force emphasized the negative impact of such a drastic reduction in voter registration points, stating that it poses a challenge for eligible and unregistered voters to participate in the democratic process effectively. The group questioned the rationale behind these restrictive measures, stressing that they undermine the fundamental right of Ghanaian citizens to freely choose their leaders through fair and accessible elections.
The New Force called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to reconsider its approach and expand voter registration access immediately. They emphasized the importance of transparency and consideration for the democratic rights of Ghanaians in making decisions regarding voter registration access. The group urged the EC to follow the example of other nations and provide open and accessible voter registration until weeks before elections to uphold democratic principles.
