CFI And IDEG Call For Constructive Engagement Between The NDC And EC Amid Voters Register Disputes

The Civic Forum Initiative (CFI), consisting of key Civil Society Organizations, including the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), after an emergency meeting held today September 16th, 2024, wishes to share its considered opinion on the ongoing impasse between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Electoral Commission (EC).

As we approach a pivotal moment in our nation’s democratic process, we believe it is crucial for all stakeholders to act in the best interest of peace, stability, and electoral integrity. This statement serves as a call for calm, dialogue, and a commitment to a transparent resolution that reinforces the strength of our democracy.

The NDC has raised concerns about errors and discrepancies in the Voters’ Register of the 2024 elections, which, if left unresolved, could undermine the credibility of the elections. These concerns have prompted the NDC to demand a forensic audit of the 2024 Voters’ Register, believing that only a thorough investigation can restore their faith in the register.

On the other hand, the EC has maintained that the ongoing finalization of the voters’ register is a procedural requirement that must be completed before any audit can take place. The Commission has therefore urged patience and cooperation, emphasizing that it is fully committed to addressing any errors once the process is completed. In spite of the EC’s assurances, the NDC has decided to embark on a nationwide demonstration on the 17th of September 2024. This is intended to reinforce its demand for a forensic audit of the voters’ register for the 2024 elections.

As a major stakeholder in the electoral process, the NDC has a legitimate right to demand a register that is fit for purpose. However, we are also mindful of the potential risks that large-scale demonstrations can pose, particularly in the current politically charged environment. Therefore, we appeal to the NDC and all protest organizers to ensure that these demonstrations remain peaceful and lawful. The safety of all Ghanaians must be the top priority, and any actions that could incite violence or unrest must be avoided at all costs.

We also call on the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies, operating under the direction of the Police Command to work closely with the protest organizers

to ensure that the demonstrations are peacefully managed. It is essential that the right to protest is protected, while safeguarding public order.

The integrity of the voters’ register is not merely a political issuemdash;it is a matter of protecting the democratic rights of every Ghanaian citizen. We therefore urge the EC to act expeditiously and transparently in the finalisation of the register. This function is crucial to reinforcing public confidence in the performance of its role.

As the Civic Forum Initiative, we believe that the impasse between the NDC and the EC can be resolved without confrontation. Instead, it requires sincere and constructive dialogue between all stakeholders involved. We propose that the Electoral Commission commit to an independent audit of the final voters’ register once it is completed and in good time. We urge all stakeholders to prioritize the national interest and to work towards peaceful and credible elections in the forthcoming presidential and parliamentary elections.

As civil society, we remain committed to supporting a peaceful and credible election processes and outcomes. We stand ready to assist in any way possible to ensure that the 9th consecutive presidential and parliamentary elections would strengthen Ghana as the beacon of multiparty democracy in West-AfricaCivic Forum Initiative