About 20 civil society organizations have raised serious concerns regarding the Electoral Commission’s (EC) recent decision to deny accreditation to their members for monitoring the upcoming 2024 elections.
Some of the affected organizations are the Centre for Conflict Resolution-Ghana (CENCOR), the Jatikay Centre for Human Security and Peace Building (JATIKAY CENTRE), the Human Security Research Center Ghana (HSRCGh), and the FESF Foundation.
During a press briefing in Accra, the group questioned the integrity and commitment of the EC under the leadership of Chairperson, Jean Mensah, suggesting that the Commission’s actions may indicate an intent to sideline independent oversight.
The organizations expressed that the decision undermines the principles of transparency and accountability in the electoral process, which are core tenets of Ghana’s democracy.
They argued that the refusal to grant access to civil society observers could suggest that Madam Jean Mensah has something to hide, which according to the group casts a shadow over the Commission’s credibility.
“The posture of the Electoral Commission raises alarming questions about what the Chairperson seeks to conceal from the public scrutiny,” Security Analyst and Executive Director of Jatikay Centre, Adib Saani said.
They argued that the lack of openness not only erodes public trust in the Commission but may also escalate the risk of electoral violence, further jeopardizing Ghana’s democratic values.
The civil society representatives made it clear that such actions could have serious implications for the integrity of the electoral process.
They warned that when citizens feel that there is inadequate independent oversight, it could lead to tensions and unrest during the elections scheduled for December 7, 2024.
The group has therefore issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Electoral Commission, demanding that it reverse its decision and grant the affected civil society organizations the necessary accreditation to monitor the elections.
The group also called on well-meaning Ghanaians, including religious leaders and members of the international community to join their efforts in advocating for the safeguarding of Ghana’s electoral processes.
Story By: Emmanuel Coffie
