IDEG Urges Electoral Commission to Address Challenges in Limited Voter Registration Exercise

The Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG) has called upon the Electoral Commission (EC) to redouble efforts in addressing the concerns raised by political parties and the public regarding the ongoing limited voter registration exercise. IDEG emphasized that such measures are essential to uphold the integrity of the voter register ahead of the December 7 polls.

In a statement titled “Upholding Peaceful and Credible Voter Registration: A Collective Responsibility,” signed by Senior Research Fellow Kwesi Jonah, IDEG stressed the importance of a smooth and peaceful registration process in ensuring credible elections. Jonah highlighted the historical precedent where disputes arising from voter registration have often led to election-related violence, underlining the necessity to prevent such occurrences.

Voter registration, deemed a constitutional right and the initial step towards becoming a voter, holds significant importance in the electoral process. IDEG noted that the limited voter registration exercise forms a pivotal part of the 2024 election calendar released by the EC.

Commencing on May 7, 2024, the limited voter registration exercise aims to register 623,000 eligible individuals onto the electoral register. With a duration of 21 days, the exercise spans across 1,053 registration centers, including 268 district offices of the EC and 785 additional centers in remote areas agreed upon with political parties. The exercise is scheduled to conclude on May 27, 2024.

While acknowledging the challenges encountered during the exercise, such as equipment breakdowns, network failures, and sporadic confrontations, IDEG emphasized the need for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful and lawful registration process.

Mr. Jonah, doubling as the Head of Advocacy and Institutional Relations at IDEG, highlighted the institute's proactive approach in mobilizing and deploying volunteers as voter educators and observers across all 16 regions of Ghana. IDEG remains committed to monitoring the registration exercise closely to mitigate potential issues.

Furthermore, IDEG urged first-time voters to be vigilant against exploitation by politicians and their affiliates, emphasizing the importance of staying away from illegal or violent activities. Parents and guardians were encouraged to educate their children about the registration process and related electoral offenses.

In conclusion, IDEG called upon the media to uphold its role as impartial purveyors of information, devoid of fake news and disinformation that could undermine the credibility of the entire voter registration exercise.

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