The Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) has made it abundantly clear that their role is not to choose the country’s president, but rather to declare the winner based on the voters’ choice. During the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on October 15, 2024, EC Chairperson Madam Jean Mensa emphasized that the Commission’s sole responsibility is to announce the elected president, not to influence the outcome.
Madam Mensa stressed that the EC will remain neutral and committed to fairness in the upcoming 2024 general elections. She urged political parties to refrain from spreading misinformation about the EC’s role and to be transparent about the Commission’s limited authority in the election process.
This call to action is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that the will of the people is respected.
As Dr. Hassan Ayariga aptly put it, “the EC can never make anybody a president.” This statement underscores the fundamental principle of democratic elections, where the power lies with the people, not the electoral commission.
The EC’s duty is to declare who the voters have chosen as their president, and it’s the Ghanaian voter who ultimately decides who will lead the country.
Madam Mensa reiterated this point, stating, “What the EC does is to declare who the voters choose as their President. And so, it’s the Ghanaian voter who votes a president into being and not the EC that makes a President.
We only declare the voter’s choice. And that is what will happen come December 2024.” This reassurance is vital in alleviating any concerns about the EC’s impartiality and commitment to democratic principles.
The EC’s stance is crucial in maintaining the trust and confidence of the Ghanaian people in the electoral process. By reaffirming their neutrality and commitment to fairness, the EC is sending a strong message that the outcome of the election will truly reflect the choice of the Ghanaian people.
In the lead-up to the 2024 general elections, the EC’s role will be scrutinized, and their actions will be under the microscope.
However, with Madam Mensa’s reassurances, Ghanaians can be confident that the EC will uphold the principles of democracy and ensure a free and fair election.
The onus now lies with political parties and stakeholders to respect the EC’s role and refrain from spreading misinformation. By working together, Ghanaians can ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process that reflects the will of the people.
As Madam Mensa emphasized, it’s essential to be clear about the EC’s limited authority in the election process and to avoid peddling false news and disinformation.
Ultimately, the EC’s commitment to neutrality and fairness will be crucial in determining the success of the 2024 general elections.
With their reassurances, Ghanaians can look forward to a democratic process that truly represents their choice for the country’s leadership.
