CDD pushes for standardised error correction procedures to enhance Ghana’s election credibility

The Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has called for the implementation of a standardised procedure to correct errors in election results, aiming to minimise confusion at polling stations and collation centers.

This move is part of a broader effort to enhance the electoral process and ensure credible, violence-free elections.

Kojo Pumpuni Asante, director of advocacy and policy engagement at CDD-Ghana, highlighted that the current lack of a legal framework for correcting mistakes in election results allows officials to use their discretion, which often leads to confusion and inconsistencies.

“We need a standardised procedure for correcting errors so that any mistake at a polling station can be addressed uniformly,” Pumpuni Asante said.

“The Electoral Commission should issue clear directives on how to handle such errors, ensuring all stakeholders are aware of the correct procedures.”

He made these remarks at a public dialogue on electoral reforms held in Kumasi on Thursday (4 July) which is part of a project funded by the European Union.

He also raised concerns about the role of the military in Ghana’s election security framework emphasising the importance of clearly defining the army’s involvement in electoral processes to prevent potential intimidation and ensure a fair voting environment.

“Election security architecture primarily involves the police and other services deployed at polling stations, while the military is generally tasked with maintaining the country’s territorial integrity. [Traditionally] the army patrols but is not stationed directly at polling stations.

However, during the 2020 elections, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the military’s presence at polling stations led to complaints of intimidation among voters.

“This is something that the election security architecture must address,” Asante said. “We need to spell out how the army will be engaged to avoid any overlap or undue influence during elections.”

He acknowledged the progress made in Ghana’s electoral process due to past reforms but emphasized the need for continued improvement. Reflecting on the history of electoral reforms since 1992, Dr. Asante underscored the importance of maintaining high standards of transparency and integrity to prevent political crises and uphold democratic principles.

“The quality of elections is crucial for democracy,” Dr. Asante remarked. “Without credible elections, we risk political instability. We must keep improving to serve the principles of universal suffrage, fair competition, and transparency.”

Reporting By Jonathan Ofori, Asaase Newsroom, Kumasi

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