The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has urged the police to enforce strict penalties for electoral offences in the upcoming 2024 General Elections.
At the launch of Channel One TV’s Election 2024 coverage at its Tesano Office in Accra on Tuesday, September 10, Albert Arhin, National Coordinator of CODEO, stressed the importance of accountability and rigorous enforcement of electoral laws to ensure a free, fair, and credible election process.
Mr. Arhin pointed out the negative effects of electoral offences on democracy and called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to impose penalties on offenders to deter future violations. He remarked, “Impunity is so prevalent that wrongdoing continues… When people are apprehended, they should be prosecuted to deter others.”
Bernard Avle, General Manager of Citi FM and Channel One TV, also urged the EC and CODEO to involve the media as a key partner in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.
He emphasized the media’s vital role in ensuring transparency and trust in the electoral process.
Avle suggested that the EC and CODEO create special situation rooms in each region, with journalists present on election day to ensure consistent and accurate reporting.
“The EC could have a system where there is a place like a situation room in regions for media houses for uniformity.”
“…The media should be seen as an integral part of the process. I really want to urge the EC and CODEO to make the media a key partner,” he stated.
