Why the Electoral Commission did not grant accreditation to all observers for Ghana Election 2024

The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has clarified its decision to limit accreditation for election observers, emphasising the need to prioritise credibility, experience, and capacity to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

Speaking at the Graphic National Development Series in today Accra, Dr Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairman of the EC in charge of Corporate Services, explained that not all applicants were granted observer status for the upcoming elections. 

"One of the topical issues that has come up as far as the observation is concerned is that not all the people who applied to observe were given the opportunity," he noted.  

Dr Asare outlined the criteria used in the selection process, stressing that election observation is not an automatic privilege. "The EC has maintained that to observe the elections is not automatic. We must look at your track record as an institution, your research potential, and your track record when it comes to election observation," he said. "We have a team in charge, and once the team makes the determination that you have what it takes to observe the election, you will be qualified to do that."  

The Deputy Chairman highlighted the significance of observers in ensuring transparency and trust in the electoral process. 

He acknowledged the participation of local and international organisations, including the Commonwealth, African Union, ECOWAS, and diplomatic missions, who will monitor the elections.  

Dr Asare assured stakeholders that the commission’s approach aligns with global best practices to safeguard the credibility of Ghana’s electoral process. "We believe that the presence of the observers will ensure the credibility of the process," he stated.  

As preparations intensify for the December 7 polls, the EC reiterated its commitment to delivering free, fair, and transparent elections, reflecting the will of the Ghanaian people.

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