EC Recalls Ballot Papers For Western And Eastern Regions Special Voting In 2 Regions Rescheduled To Dec 5

The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has announced the recall of ballot papers intended for the Western and Eastern Regions following reports of a defaced ballot paper. 

As a result, the special voting exercise for these two regions, initially scheduled for Monday, December 2, has been rescheduled to Thursday, December 5.  

The decision, announced by EC Chairperson Jean Mensa at an emergency press briefing on Sunday, December 1, comes after National Security reported that a defaced ballot paper, earmarked for destruction, was found outside the Checkpoint Printing House, the facility responsible for producing the ballot papers.  

Reprinting and enhanced security measures
 
Mrs. Mensa explained that the commission has initiated the reprinting and redistribution of the affected ballots. She reassured the public of the EC’s commitment to transparency and electoral integrity.

While no irregularities were initially reported with the Western Region’s ballot papers, the printing press responsible for the Eastern Region’s materials also handled those for the Western Region. As a precaution, the EC decided to recall and reprint ballots for both regions.  

Nationwide special voting  

Special voting for the rest of the country, designed to enable security personnel, election officials, and media practitioners to cast their votes ahead of the December 7 general elections, will proceed as planned on December 2. The revised December 5 date applies only to the Western and Eastern Regions.  

The EC has appealed for calm and cooperation from voters and candidates while steps are taken to address the issue.  

The Electoral Commission reiterated its dedication to conducting a credible and transparent election.graphiconline