Groupstand for Peace, Growth, and Development, a pressure group, is advocating for transparency in the December 2024 polls.
In a press release by its Executive Director, Happy Agbenyenu, the group emphasized that the transparency of the electoral process in the upcoming 7th December 2024 polls in Ghana is crucial in preventing potential violence from disgruntled party members and their supporters.
“In light of the recent statement by the Electoral Commissioner, Madam Jean Mensa, urging political parties to accept the results of the upcoming polls in good faith, we wish to express our concerns and recommendations.”
Appeal to the Electoral Commission
The group further cautioned the Electoral Commission to act as an independent referee during the December 7th election, addressing the numerous questions raised about the impartiality of the Commission. The statement also referenced former President John Dramani Mahama’s recent concerns about the perceived biases in the EC’s appointments during his interview at the London School of Economics and Political Science, where the National Democratic Congress’s Flagbearer specifically cited alleged favouritism of the EC towards the ruling party.
Impartiality and Independence
The statement also addressed the lingering question of whether these accusations against the EC are grounded in truth. The group acknowledges the innovations aimed at ensuring credible elections but emphasizes that “the true litmus test lies in the verdict of the Ghanaian electorate. Have they truly experienced elections characterized by transparency, fairness, and freedom?”
The group believes that these concerns, if not mitigated before the elections, could undermine the democratic gains achieved by the country’s democratic dispensation.
Therefore, the group is asking the Electoral Commission about the additional measures implemented to guarantee the independence and impartiality of the EC, while further urging the Electoral Commission to embark on a comprehensive educational campaign across Ghana.
“The populace must be actively engaged and informed about,” the statement concluded.
