The recent special voting exercise held on December 2, 2024, witnessed serious irregularities, sparking widespread concern over the integrity of the upcoming elections in Ghana. The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has reported alarming instances of vote-buying and other violations, which have prompted calls for immediate action from authorities to preserve the sanctity of the voting process.
On the backdrop of Ghana’s December 7 general elections, CODEO highlighted incidents where the laws governing electoral conduct were blatantly disregarded. The coalition—a non-partisan body dedicated to promoting free and fair elections—picked up reports of vote-buying across various regions, including Greater Accra and Northern Region. Allegations surfaced of presiding officers and security officials turning a blind eye to these violations, raising questions about their commitment to uphold electoral integrity.
CODEO’s alarming findings were echoed by the Progressive Alliance for Ghana (PAG), whose flagbearer Dr. John Kpikpi issued strong statements condemning the actions observed during the special voting exercise. Dr. Kpikpi criticized the attempts of individuals and political parties to interfere with free and fair elections, describing the reported violations as “alarming and unacceptable.” He emphasized the importance of ensuring the electoral process remains untainted, reiteratively expressing the urgency of actions against violators.
Specific incidents highlighted by CODEO include the photographing of ballots, which compromises the privacy of voters. For example, instances were reported where voters attempted to capture images of their completed ballots, presumably to confirm their votes for compensation later. This disturbing trend raises significant concerns about the possible coercion and inducement of voters.
Additional troubling incidents were noted during the special voting. Observers reported missing names on special voter lists, which resulted in security personnel being turned away from polling stations. One dismayed officer described how he had verified his eligibility to vote through the Electoral Commission’s portal, only to be prevented from participating due to bureaucratic errors.
Dr. Kwame Asa-Asante, a senior political science lecturer at the University of Ghana, weighed in on the issue, denouncing the actions of security personnel involved in the vote-capturing incidents. He stressed the legal ramifications of such actions, reminding voters and officials alike of the need to respect electoral laws. His remarks reflect the broader sense of disappointment among the electorate and observers alike, who expected strict adherence to democratic norms.
Observers noted, for the most part, the special voting exercise proceeded smoothly, with over 114,000 eligible voters expected to participate. With polling stations opening largely on time—about 81 percent were operational by 7:15 AM—the process appeared orderly. Most polling stations reported no issues with the Biometric Voter Verification Devices (BVDs), and materials were available at all stations except for minor discrepancies.
Despite the overall smoothness of the exercise, the irregularities have cast doubts over the upcoming elections. CODEO has urged the Electoral Commission and the National Election Security Task Force to set forth stricter guidelines for handling election offenses and to educate presiding officers on measures to take when witnessing violations.
Some incidents included reports from specific constituencies where political representatives allegedly distributed money to induce voters. For example, reports from viewers witnessing party representatives allegedly giving out cash at polling stations have stirred outrage. From Keta to Weija-Gbawe and Jaman North, similar accounts prompted CODEO’s call for heightened vigilance among voters and law enforcement to monitor illicit activities.
Addressing these issues is not just about maintaining order at the polls; it is about safeguarding democracy itself. Leaders and spokespeople from various political factions have already started to call out these irregularities, linking them to broader issues of public confidence and the perceived legitimacy of the electoral system. For the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), these instances are especially damaging as both parties vie for the trust of the electorate.
Dr. Kpikpi articulated another dimension of this concern, emphasizing the historical significance of the upcoming elections. “Maintaining the sanctity of the vote is not only important for democracy but also for the peace and progress of our nation. It is incumbent upon both voters and political entities to operate within the legal frameworks established for our democratic system,” he asserted.
The findings and reports compiled by CODEO were aimed not only at exposing disturbances but also at pushing for preventative measures as the nation nears election Day. Future electoral practices hinge on the vigilance and commitment of both civil society observers and the electoral body.
Looking forward to the upcoming polls, CODEO has called on all political parties to eschew unethical practices and on voters to reject any inducements aimed at compromising their right to freely express their electoral choices. Voter education initiatives are expected to play a significant role leading up to December 7, with campaigning against vote-buying being particularly emphasized.
With numerous organizations stepping up to monitor and report electoral practices, the Nairobi-based Affirmative Action Movement noted similar issues around the continent, underscoring the urgency of implementing effective electoral reforms. The need to adapt and enforce strict protocols has never been more pressing as Ghana stands to showcase its democratic prowess amid rising tensions over electoral practices.
With both excitement and anxiety permeate the atmosphere, humbling reminders of civic responsibility implore Ghanians to stand firm against electoral malpractices. All eyes are on the central authorities, political figures, and ordinary citizens, who collectively shape the nation’s electoral destiny.
The events of December 2 revealed significant underlying issues within Ghana’s electoral framework. The scrutiny these events bring also demonstrate the power of civic engagement, as civil society continues to demand accountability and integrity from all involved players. Only through transparent and fair processes can democracy truly thrive.
