Security consultant and risk analyst, Prof. Emmanuel Aning, has strongly criticized the Electoral Commission (EC) for its poor communication with the public, identifying it as the Commission’s most significant challenge.
In a candid interview with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV’s Point of View programme on Monday, Prof. Aning highlighted the EC’s failure to engage with Ghanaians in a respectful and clear manner, leading to widespread frustration and disillusionment among the citizenry.
He emphasized that the Commission has been either unable or unwilling to effectively address the public’s concerns, despite the critical importance of transparent communication in building trust and confidence in the electoral process.
Prof. Aning expressed disappointment in the EC’s increasingly “closed up” attitude, noting that the election management body has become dismissive of suggestions and public input, thereby exacerbating the situation.
Prof. Aning stressed that the EC’s communication outfit is unprofessional, failing to engage in dialogic and explanatory communication that takes into consideration the concerns of Ghanaians.
He urged the EC to adopt a more open and inclusive approach, seeking to assuage people’s fears and address their concerns in a transparent and respectful manner.
This, he believes, is essential for fostering a sense of ownership and trust among the electorate, which is critical for the success of the electoral process.
With only 87 days left before the elections, Prof. Aning emphasized the need for the EC to change its approach and engage with the public more effectively.
He called on the Commission to be more responsive to the concerns of Ghanaians, providing clear and timely explanations for its decisions and actions. By doing so, the EC can help ensure a peaceful and credible election, which is critical for the country’s democratic stability and development.
Furthermore, Prof. Aning noted that the EC’s poor communication has created an environment of mistrust and speculation, which can have far-reaching consequences for the country’s democratic process.
He, therefore, urged the Commission to take immediate steps to address its communication challenges, engaging with the public in a more transparent and inclusive manner.
