Dr. Kwesi Baako, a respected political analyst and advocate for electoral integrity, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to maintain neutrality and fairness as Ghana prepares for the December 2024 elections.
His remarks come at a critical time when the country is facing intense political competition, with various candidates and parties gearing up for the presidential and parliamentary polls.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, November 10, Dr. Baako emphasized the vital role the EC plays in safeguarding the democratic process. He reminded the Commission of its constitutional duty to oversee elections in a manner that is free from bias and outside influence.
“The EC must uphold its mandate to ensure the elections are fair and transparent,” Dr. Baako stated. “The credibility of the entire electoral process depends on the Commission’s ability to conduct itself impartially, without favoring any political party, candidate, or interest group.”
The political climate in Ghana has grown increasingly charged, with tensions rising ahead of the December elections.
Various political actors have expressed concerns about the EC’s ability to oversee the elections impartially, with accusations of partisanship often levied against the Commission in the past. This has prompted calls from across the political spectrum for vigilance and action to avoid any appearance of bias.
Dr. Baako warned that any perceived lack of fairness could have serious consequences.
“A failure to remain neutral could undermine public confidence in the electoral system and lead to unrest, post-election disputes, or even instability,” he added. “In a nation like Ghana, where democracy has been hard-earned and nurtured, we must do everything to protect it.”
In his address, Dr. Baako also highlighted the importance of transparency in the conduct of the elections.
He urged the EC to ensure that all stages of the electoral process from voter registration, the conduct of the polls, to the counting and declaration of results are handled with the utmost openness.
He called for the EC to proactively engage with the public and political parties to address any concerns in a timely manner and ensure that all stakeholders feel their voices are heard.
Furthermore, Dr. Baako echoed the importance of public confidence in the Commission, especially among the youth and first-time voters, who are expected to play a key role in this election.
According to the latest polls, young voters are increasingly engaged in the election process, and their trust in the EC will be crucial in ensuring high voter turnout.
“The Electoral Commission must make efforts to build trust with the younger generation, who have shown a keen interest in this year’s elections. Their confidence in the process will encourage participation and help foster a peaceful atmosphere leading up to and after the election,” Dr. Baako noted.
As the country prepares for the upcoming election, Dr. Baako concluded his remarks by urging all political parties to commit to upholding the peace and integrity of the electoral process.
He called on all Ghanaians to respect the outcome of the elections, as long as they are conducted fairly and transparently.
With less than a month until the election, the EC is under increasing pressure to demonstrate its impartiality and competence.
The Commission’s actions in the coming weeks will be under intense scrutiny, as its handling of the electoral process could significantly impact the outcome of the elections and the future political landscape of the country.
