TIG Post

Tag: IPAC

  • Halt recollation exercise, hold emergency IPAC meeting – NDC to EC

    Halt recollation exercise, hold emergency IPAC meeting – NDC to EC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to immediately halt a purported recollation exercise of parliamentary election results from December 7, 2024, being conducted at the Tesano Police Training School.

    The party expressed grave concerns over the exercise, which it believes is being carried out in bad faith and could lead to electoral chaos, erode public trust, and destabilize the nation’s peace and cohesion.

    In an urgent statement, the NDC called for an emergency meeting of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) to be convened today to address the matter. The party emphasized that such an exercise, conducted without proper consultation, has the potential to fuel tensions and further undermine the integrity of the electoral process.

    The NDC’s statement urged the Electoral Commission to act decisively, asserting that the sanctity of the electoral process must be preserved and that all steps taken by the EC must be guided by principles of legality, fairness, and consensus.

    According to the NDC, an inclusive dialogue through an emergency IPAC meeting would provide clarity on the situation and restore confidence in the Electoral Commission’s commitment to upholding its constitutional mandate.

    The party’s call for immediate action comes at a critical time, with political tensions running high in the wake of the December 7 election.

    The NDC insists that the public and all political stakeholders must be assured that the electoral process is transparent and conducted in a manner that reflects the will of the people.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has relocated the results collation process for the Eastern Region to the National Police Training School (NPTS) at Tesano in Accra.

    As a result, the Ghana Police Service has intensified security measures following disputes over results collation.

  • EC doesn’t decide who becomes President – Jean Mensa

    EC doesn’t decide who becomes President – Jean Mensa

    The Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) has stressed that it does not hold the authority to determine or appoint the nation’s president.

    During a live broadcast of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, EC Chairperson Madam Jean Mensa clarified that the Commission’s primary duty is to declare the voters’ choice rather than to influence election outcomes.

    She assured the public that the EC will maintain this position in the upcoming 2024 general elections, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to neutrality and fairness.

    Madam Mensa also urged political parties to avoid disseminating misinformation regarding the EC’s role, encouraging them to accurately communicate the Commission’s limited powers within the electoral process.

    “I would like to quote from Dr Hassan Ayariga’s statement where he said the EC can never make anybody a president, and I think that we all know that around this table. And therefore, we should not peddle misinformation.

    “And peddle false news and disinformation and give the innocent citizens who do not know the process that the Electoral Commission can make somebody a President. I would like to quote from Dr Hassan Ayariga’s statement that the EC can never make anybody a President.

    “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. It’s who the voter wants to be President of this land who will be declared by the EC.”

  • IPAC meeting to be held Tuesday, October 15

    IPAC meeting to be held Tuesday, October 15

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that it will convene another Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

    This was disclosed in a press release issued by the Commission on Monday, October 14.

    The meeting will bring together key stakeholders in the electoral process to discuss critical matters ahead of the 2024 general elections. According to the EC, the primary agenda for the meeting will focus on the re-exhibition of the Provisional Voter’s Register (PVR), a significant step in ensuring the accuracy and transparency of the voter register to facilitate a smooth electoral process.

    The EC has been actively engaging political parties and other stakeholders in these efforts, encouraging full cooperation and participation to ensure the success of the election preparations. In its press release, the EC urged all political parties to attend the meeting, with a maximum of two representatives per party. This limitation is likely to keep the meeting focused and productive, enabling efficient discussions on the issues at hand.

    The Commission hopes to strengthen collaboration with political parties through this meeting. As with previous gatherings, the media will have access to cover the proceedings.

    IPAC Meeting on Tuesday (1)Download
  • Revised voters register would be accessible within 2 weeks or earlier – EC clarifies timeline

    Revised voters register would be accessible within 2 weeks or earlier – EC clarifies timeline

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has clarified reports regarding the release of the revised 2024 Provisional Voters Register (PVR), following claims by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that the register would be available within a week.

    In a statement dated October 8 and signed by Samuel Tettey, Deputy Chairperson in charge of Operations, the EC denied making any such commitment.

    The EC wrote: “For the records, the Chairperson of the EC indicated during the televised IPAC meeting that the Commission would provide the Political Parties with the revised PVR and upload it online within two (2) weeks or earlier.”

    The NDC, after the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held on Tuesday, October 1, issued a statement indicating that it had accepted the EC’s alleged promise to release the corrected or updated version of the 2024 Provisional Voters Register to political parties within one week.

    The party is quoted to have stated: “The Functional Executive Committee of the NDC has deliberated and decided to accept the EC’s promise to release to political parties, the corrected/updated version of the 2024 Provisional Voters Register for scrutiny within one week.”

    In its response, the commission clarified that its Chairperson, Jean Mensa, had actually informed political parties during the IPAC meeting that the Commission would provide the revised PVR and make it available online within two weeks or earlier.

    “Nowhere in her statement did the Chairperson indicate that the revised PVR would be made available within a week,” the EC emphasized.

    Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, has reported that significant progress has been made in addressing the issues identified in the voter register.

    She noted that while the register is still a work in progress and contains some minor inaccuracies, this is to be expected in any large-scale registration exercise.

    The NDC’s examination of the register identified five key anomalies:

    1. Missing Names: The party discovered that the names of registered voters were missing from the list, potentially disenfranchising eligible voters.
    2. Misplaced on Lists: Qualified voters were incorrectly placed on the Exception List or the Multiple List, which could prevent them from voting on election day.
    3. Disqualified Individuals: Some individuals disqualified due to multiple registrations or successful challenges were still found on the Main Provisional Voters Register (PVR), raising questions about the accuracy of the register.
    4. Unauthorized Transfers: Voters were transferred from one polling station to another without their knowledge. Additionally, old transfers that should have been resolved were still appearing on the register.
    5. Polling Station Changes: Some voters were moved from one polling station to another without their consent, causing confusion and potential voter suppression.

    The EC has admitted to errors in the transfer of votes.

  • Calls for forensic audit is irrelevant – Akpaloo to NDC

    Calls for forensic audit is irrelevant – Akpaloo to NDC

    The flagbearer of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), Kofi Akpaloo, has rejected the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) demand for a forensic audit of the 2024 voters register, describing it as futile and a waste of time.

    He contended that with less than three months to the December 7 elections, the Electoral Commission (EC) does not have adequate time to undertake such an audit.

    The NDC has raised concerns about alleged inflation of the voters register with ineligible individuals, calling for a thorough audit.

    However, during an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra on Tuesday, October 1, Akpaloo urged the NDC to drop the call, asserting that it would only serve as a distraction from critical election preparations.

    “We have almost 65 days until the elections and EC is expected to audit the register within the next 60 days. When are we going to do this forensic audit involving 275 constituencies, 40,000 polling stations, and 18 million voters? Who is going to do this auditing in less than 60 days and so NDC, please stop this request because it will not help anybody.”

    Kofi Akpaloo further defended the Electoral Commission (EC), dismissing the NDC’s claims that the voters register is filled with ghost names.

    He argued that these allegations would not negatively impact the outcome of the December 7 polls, insisting that the register remains reliable for the election.

    Akpaloo emphasized that such concerns should not derail the focus on essential election preparations.

    “Mind you, this is a biometric register and no dead person can come out of the grave to vote and so if there is a dead person on the register, it will not affect the results so please, this one is a non-starter and you shouldn’t have even sent that request here and you have wasted everybody’s time”

    “The EC too needs to be commended for the work that they did and it demonstrates the fact that it is up to the task and must be commended and I am not going to accept that human error institution excuse,” Kofi Akpaloo added.

  • Voters register is now accurate – EC

    Voters register is now accurate – EC

    The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana, has announced that the voters register has been updated in preparation for the 2024 general elections.

    During her address at the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on October 1, 2024, she detailed the commission’s efforts to rectify errors identified in the register.

    She said “As a commission, we have devoted the last few weeks to correct the discrepancies and you will find that the provisional voters register today is different and more accurate than what was exhibited and provided to the parties in August 2024.”

    Jean Mensa also rejected allegations that the EC aims to disenfranchise voters. She emphasized that the IPAC meeting serves as a testament to the electoral process’s transparency in the upcoming elections.

    The meeting was convened to allow political parties to present any evidence regarding alleged discrepancies in the Provisional Voter Register (PVR), particularly in response to the National Democratic Congress’s persistent calls for a forensic audit. Mensa characterized the request for such an audit as “premature.”

  • EC’s claims of fixing voter register discrepancies are false – NDC

    EC’s claims of fixing voter register discrepancies are false – NDC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Director of Elections and IT, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has strongly rejected the Electoral Commission’s (EC) assertions that the discrepancies in the 2024 Provisional Voters Register have been adequately addressed.

    At the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held in Accra on Tuesday, October 1, he voiced his concerns that the EC’s failure to take decisive measures could allow those manipulating voter data to operate without oversight, jeopardizing the integrity of the upcoming elections.

    With the election date rapidly approaching, Dr. Omane Boamah warned that the EC’s delays in fully resolving these discrepancies could prevent timely corrections to the voter register. “Time is of the essence,” he emphasized, highlighting the urgent need to tackle these issues.

    He also reiterated the NDC’s call for a thorough audit of both the 2024 voter register and the EC’s IT system to ensure complete transparency and accuracy.

    According to Dr. Omane Boamah, such an audit would bolster confidence in the electoral process and protect against potential tampering of voter data.

    Using a vivid analogy during his address at the IPAC meeting, he said, “When your roof is leaking, you can choose to mop continuously, or you can decide to fix the leak and then mop. What we see here is the EC mopping and mopping [referring to the EC’s PowerPoint presentation], without addressing the core issue.”

    “Fixing the leakage is missing, and this is at the heart of our altruistic demand for a forensic audit. This forensic audit is not just about the register, when you have fixed the register, I will demonstrate to you, how as a result of our revelations, some aftermath of the fixing is providing a semblance of we’re fixing it. When you fix it we all look at the hard copies, and we’re all given the PVR soft copies.

    “In November, if the very criminals that got us here, are still there engaged in illegal transfers, we will come back to square one. At that time, it will be too close to the December 7 elections. This is why we’re saying, we need to adopt a dichotomous approach, look at the register, fix the issues in there and also audit the very IT system, that allows these anomalies to occur.”

    In response, the Electoral Commission (EC) has argued that the NDC’s call for an audit is premature, emphasizing that they have robust procedures in place for finalizing the voter register.

    The EC detailed a multi-step process designed to address discrepancies and maintain the integrity of the register, which includes stages such as registration, exhibition, and review.

    They assured stakeholders that most discrepancies have been rectified and that any outstanding issues will be resolved through the established procedures.

  • 700K new voters added to provisional list for 2024 elections

    700K new voters added to provisional list for 2024 elections

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has reported that 18,772,795 valid voters are expected to participate in the upcoming December general elections, with 9,082,622 males and 9,690,173 females.

    The latest data also highlights the addition of 708,282 new voters to the electoral roll, alongside 332,110 transferred voters, 2,167 proxy voters, 32,974 on the exceptions list, and 26,798 on the multiples list.

    During an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting in Accra on October 1, EC Chairperson Jean Mensa addressed concerns regarding the voter register.

    She assured that most of the errors have been resolved, although the register remains provisional. Mensa emphasized that while imperfections are common in such processes, the EC is committed to rectifying them.

  • EC holds IPAC meeting today to discuss voters register

    EC holds IPAC meeting today to discuss voters register

    The Electoral Commission (EC) will hold an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting today, Tuesday, October 1, 2024.

    The meeting is intended to provide political parties with an opportunity to present any findings they may have regarding the Provisional Voters Register (PVR). It will also allow the EC to present an updated report on issues it has resolved with the PVR.

    In a move to keep citizens informed, the Commission has announced that the meeting will be covered live, as part of its ongoing efforts to build trust in its processes. The EC is optimistic that feedback from political parties will help further strengthen the 2024 Voters Register.

    This meeting follows persistent pressure on the EC to conduct a forensic audit of the Voters Register, after the National Democratic Congress (NDC) raised concerns about the integrity of the register, particularly regarding the transfer of voters without their consent.

    However, the EC has maintained that calls for a forensic audit of the Provisional Voters Register are premature, as the Commission has yet to exhaust its established procedures for cleaning the register.

    In response to a petition by the NDC, the Commission stated that it had largely resolved the discrepancies identified in the register and would conduct an online exhibition before the final version is released.

    In a letter to the NDC, signed by EC Chairperson Mrs. Jean Mensa, the Commission explained, “The exhibition of the Provisional Voters Register allows for inspection and correction of discrepancies.” It also noted that the Commission’s District Officers are currently implementing the decisions and recommendations of the District Registration Review Officers.

    Today’s IPAC meeting is expected to play a key role in addressing any remaining concerns and ensuring the integrity of the voters register ahead of the 2024 elections.

  • A credible register, live broadcast of IPAC meetings – NDC demands of EC

    A credible register, live broadcast of IPAC meetings – NDC demands of EC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has once again called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to allow a live broadcast of the upcoming Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday, October 1.

    This, the NDC argues, is necessary to ensure transparency in the electoral process as the nation prepares for the 2024 general elections.

    The NDC’s demand for a live broadcast comes after the EC rejected a previous request to televise discussions concerning discrepancies in the Provisional Voters Register (PVR).

    In a press release issued on Monday, September 30, the EC urged all stakeholders attending the IPAC meeting to present data and evidence to support claims of discrepancies with the PVR. The Commission maintained that this collaborative approach would help address lingering concerns about the voters’ register.

    Despite the EC’s calls, the NDC has yet to submit the data supporting its claims, instead insisting on a forensic audit of the register.

    Speaking to Citi News, NDC’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer, emphasized that a credible voters’ register is central to the success of the 2024 elections, and stressed the need for full transparency through a live broadcast of the meeting.

    “We believe it’s crucial to have this live broadcast because of the gravity of the issues at hand. The 2024 general elections hinge on the voters’ register, and a credible register is essential for the entire election process,” Dr. Computer said.

    He further questioned the EC’s reluctance to allow media coverage of the meeting, adding that transparency is key to restoring public trust.

    “The EC’s response suggests they’ll show us how they’ve addressed the issues we’ve raised. It’s important that the media is present to witness this. Transparency is what everyone seeks, and that’s why we’re inviting the EC to allow the media in. If there’s nothing to hide, why block the media?” he concluded.

  • Support your claims with facts – EC to NDC over voter register discrepancies

    Support your claims with facts – EC to NDC over voter register discrepancies

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has urged all stakeholders attending Tuesday’s important Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting to bring evidence and data to support any discrepancies or concerns they may have regarding the Provisional Voter Register (PVR).

    This collaborative approach aims to effectively address any outstanding issues with the register.

    In a press release issued on Monday, September 30, the EC highlighted that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has not yet submitted data on the alleged discrepancies for which they have requested a forensic audit, despite multiple requests.

    The EC anticipates that the NDC and other stakeholders will present their findings at the upcoming IPAC meeting. They reiterated that producing the Final Voter Register is an ongoing process, emphasizing their commitment to working with IPAC to resolve any concerns.

    In a related development, the NDC has renewed its demand for live media coverage of the IPAC meeting set for Tuesday, October 1.

    Dr. Omane Boamah, the NDC’s Director of IT and Elections, stated in a Facebook post that live coverage would provide Ghanaians with real-time, unbiased information regarding the state of the 2024 voter register following the EC’s self-audit process.

    The ongoing back-and-forth between the NDC and the EC centers around alleged discrepancies identified by the NDC in the voter register, with the party continuing to push for a forensic audit. Dr. Boamah emphasized that the discrepancies remain unaddressed and reiterated the necessity for public access to the IPAC discussions in real time.

  • EC to meet political parties on Sep 30 over voter register concerns

    EC to meet political parties on Sep 30 over voter register concerns

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has scheduled an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting for Monday, September 30, 2024, in its conference room, focusing on the electoral register.

    This meeting addresses ongoing concerns regarding the integrity of the voter roll as the 2024 general elections approach.

    This initiative follows the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) call for a forensic audit of the Provisional Voter’s Register (PVR), which they claim has discrepancies.

    The NDC’s demand for an audit was part of a petition submitted after a demonstration on September 17, 2024.

    However, EC Chairperson Jean Mensa has rejected the necessity for an audit, arguing that the current legal and administrative mechanisms to address register-related issues have not been fully utilized.

    In correspondence to NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the EC expressed confidence in the current electoral roll’s robustness, stating, “As a Commission, we are of the view that the existing legal and administrative processes for cleaning the PVR have not been fully exhausted to justify the call for a forensic audit.”

    The EC reassured both the NDC and the public that it is actively addressing the discrepancies identified in the PVR, similar to actions taken during the 2020 general elections.

    The same processes will be implemented for the upcoming elections.

    To enhance transparency, the EC has invited the NDC to participate in discussions and observe the measures being taken to resolve any voter register issues.

    Additionally, the EC responded to concerns about illegal vote transfers, disclosing that its District Officer in Pusiga, Upper East Region, was dismissed for facilitating 38 illegal transfers, which have since been rectified.

    While the NDC requested a re-exhibition of the voter register, the EC cited time constraints but assured voters that an online version of the register will remain accessible until election day. The EC concluded by urging trust in established processes and reaffirming its commitment to ensuring a transparent and credible election in 2024.

  • EC sets IPAC meeting for September 30

    EC sets IPAC meeting for September 30

    Electoral Commission (EC) has announced an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting scheduled for Monday, September 30, 2024, at its conference room.

    The meeting, which will focus on the electoral register, comes in response to ongoing concerns about the integrity of the voter roll ahead of the 2024 general elections.

    This meeting follows the demand for a forensic audit of the Provisional Voter’s Register (PVR) by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), citing discrepancies in the current voter roll.

    The NDC’s call for an audit was part of a petition submitted after a demonstration on September 17, 2024.

    However, the EC, led by Jean Mensa, has dismissed the need for such an audit, maintaining that the current legal and administrative mechanisms in place to address any issues with the register have not yet been fully utilised.

    In a letter to NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the EC emphasised its confidence in the robustness of the current electoral roll, stating: “As a Commission, we are of the view that the existing legal and administrative processes for cleaning the PVR have not been fully exhausted to justify the call for a forensic audit.”

    The EC reassured both the NDC and the general public that it is actively addressing the discrepancies identified in the PVR, as it did during the 2020 general elections, and that the same processes will be applied for the upcoming 2024 polls.

    In an effort to foster transparency, the EC has invited the NDC to participate in discussions and observe the steps being taken to resolve any issues in the voter register.

    Additionally, the EC responded to concerns about the illegal transfer of votes, revealing that its District Officer in Pusiga, Upper East Region, had been dismissed for facilitating 38 illegal vote transfers, which have since been corrected.

    Regarding the NDC’s request for a re-exhibition of the voter register, the EC cited time constraints but assured voters that an online version of the register would remain accessible until election day.

    The EC concluded by urging trust in the established processes and reaffirming its commitment to delivering a transparent and credible election in 2024.

  • EC to hold mop-up registration exercise from Aug 1-3

    EC to hold mop-up registration exercise from Aug 1-3

    The Electoral Commission (EC) will hold a mop-up registration exercise from August 1 to August 3, 2024, at all 268 district offices, 41 prison centers, and 26 public universities.

    The EC has promised to resolve network issues and other logistical challenges before the registration exercise.

    This announcement was made during the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Thursday, July 25.

    The EC also stated that the missing names from the voter register have been restored and urged political parties to encourage their members to verify their names during the exhibition period.

    Additionally, the Electoral Commission committed to updating its calendar and sharing it with political parties. They also pledged to publish the Provisional Voters Register on their website, as required by CI 91.

    The EC’s IT department will address concerns about the registration figures announced in parliament at the next IPAC meeting.

  • Having NDC back to IPAC has been favorable – Jean Mensa

    Having NDC back to IPAC has been favorable – Jean Mensa

    Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, has hailed the return of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC), describing it as highly beneficial. She noted that the NDC’s re-engagement has brought valuable insights that have contributed to enhancing Ghana’s electoral processes.

    The NDC had boycotted IPAC meetings since March 2020 due to concerns over the Electoral Commission’s stance.

    Madam Mensa expressed satisfaction with their return, highlighting the NDC’s significant role as the main opposition and a pivotal stakeholder in Ghana’s political landscape.

    In an interview with JoyNews on June 26, she remarked, “They are the main opposition and they constitute a formidable force. It is a great benefit to all of us that they have returned to IPAC.”

    She further explained that since their return, the NDC has provided constructive feedback that the EC has incorporated into managing recent registration exercises.

    “The discussions have been going on very well. They have been very constructive. It has been valuable feedback that has come from the NDC as well as some of the other parties… so for the just-ended registration exercise there was valuable feedback that the NDC brought on board and we have considered quite a number of ideas and the suggestions and we have taken them on board so we continue to engage in a constructive way”.

    Previously, on April 21, 2021, the NDC had declined an invitation to an IPAC meeting, citing perceived bias and lack of transparency during the 2020 elections.

    Despite subsequent Supreme Court rulings, the NDC maintained reservations about the election’s integrity, although they publicly committed to rejoining IPAC in December 2023.

    Since their return in January 2024, the NDC has actively participated in IPAC meetings, marking a renewed phase of collaborative engagement with the Electoral Commission.

  • Missing BVDs: NDC calls for emergency IPAC meeting

    Missing BVDs: NDC calls for emergency IPAC meeting

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to promptly convene an emergency Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting to address concerns regarding the reported ‘disappearance’ of Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) and related issues.

    The party stressed the importance of such a meeting for the EC to provide explanations and reassurances to political parties and their supporters.

    In a petition submitted to the Commission on Wednesday, March 27, the NDC expressed concern over these issues, fearing that they could potentially undermine the fairness and integrity of the upcoming December 2024 elections.

    The petition, signed by the party’s General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, urged the EC to give serious consideration to the concerns to maintain public trust in its operations.

    “Leadership, members and sympathisers of the NDC are worried about the situation and believe that these unfortunate incidents pose a serious threat to free, fair and transparent elections in the upcoming 2024 general elections.”

    “The NDC therefore wishes to request for an emergency IPAC meeting to enable all political parties to discuss these crucial issues and come to a consensus on how to promote free, fair and transparent elections,” an excerpt of the petition said.

    “Additionally, per your calendar, you were supposed to call an IPAC meeting to enable all political parties to discuss these issues and come to a consensus on how to promote free, fair and transparent elections,” it added.

    Additionally, the party pointed out that the Electoral Commission (EC) was slated to convene an IPAC meeting on March 27, as per its calendar for the year. However, this meeting did not occur as scheduled.

  • IPAC meetings have been cordial ever since we returned – NDC

    IPAC meetings have been cordial ever since we returned – NDC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has noted a positive shift in the atmosphere of Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meetings, describing the current environment as more amicable.

    In January of this year, the NDC reversed its decision to abstain from IPAC meetings, marking a return to constructive engagement.

    IPAC meetings provide a platform for political parties to review election-related activities, voice grievances, and contribute constructively.

    The committee also serves as an advisory body to the Electoral Commission (EC).

    In 2021, the NDC boycotted IPAC meetings, citing concerns about the EC’s alleged bias in favor of the New Patriotic Party during the 2020 general elections.

    “It was very cordial. Don’t forget this year happens to be the third IPAC meeting that we attended. The first IPAC meeting was on 22nd February 2024. The second was on 29th February, and 7th March. So it’s been cordial since we returned to IPAC.”

    “…It appears they have changed…It is not very cordial, very lovely. Not acrimonious. It is like the IPAC we used to know. That is consensus-building,” he stated.

  • EC to hold IPAC meeting today after releasing 2024 election calendar

    EC to hold IPAC meeting today after releasing 2024 election calendar

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has scheduled an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting for today to address issues related to the December 7 elections, particularly the electoral calendar.

    However, the two major political parties have indicated that they have not received official communication from the EC regarding the calendar.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed concerns about certain aspects of the calendar that have been made public.

    Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, Mustapha Gbande, criticized the EC for what he described as inadequate communication between the institution and its stakeholders.

    The purpose of the meeting is to discuss and possibly resolve these issues, ensuring a transparent and well-organized electoral process.

    “What has been in the Daily Graphic is not a document for stakeholders to consider because the EC must, within the competent discharge of their responsibilities and good faith, sign a document under either the letterhead or the logo and communicate it to the parties.”

    “Political parties do not accept correspondence from the EC through publications, and what is even more shameful for them is to come back and say they did not leak it. This is the same way they will leak the 2024 general elections.”

  • EC to hold IPAC meeting on March 7

    EC to hold IPAC meeting on March 7

    The Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) has taken a pivotal step towards addressing the upcoming December 7, 2024 general elections by convening an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 7, 2024.

    Responding to mounting pressure from political parties and members of parliament demanding clarity on the election timeline, the EC officially invited party representatives through a letter dated March 1, 2024.

    Signed by Mr. Bossman Eric Asare, Deputy Chairman for Corporate Services at the EC, the invitation instructs each party to send three representatives to the IPAC meeting.

    The central focus of the meeting, slated to commence at 10 am in the IPAC room of the Electoral Commission, is to lay the groundwork for the announcement of election 2024 programs.

    Furthermore, the gathering of political stakeholders provides an opportunity for open discussions on any other pertinent matters relevant to the upcoming elections.

  • Allow Independent candidates join IPAC – Buaben Asamoa

    Allow Independent candidates join IPAC – Buaben Asamoa

    Member of Movement for Change, Buaben Asamoa, is urging the Electoral Commission (EC) to permit the inclusion of independent presidential candidates in Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meetings.

    The former Adentan MP asserts that independent candidates play a crucial role as stakeholders in the nation’s electoral processes.

    In an interview with Citi FM, Mr. Asamoa articulated that incorporating independent candidates into IPAC meetings would introduce diverse ideas that could contribute to the overall benefit of the country. This move, he believes, would foster inclusivity and enrich the electoral discourse with a broader range of perspectives.

    “I would have loved that the independents are allowed to also voice their opinion within the formal circle of IPAC. That will make a difference. Hopefully, even if that does not work, we will put in our bit formally to discuss that,” he said.

    “I think Ghanaians should look up and forward beyond the culture of the two dominant parties. You have the opportunity to break the winner-takes-all,” he added.

    The call for the inclusion of independent presidential candidates in Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meetings comes in the wake of a proposal by the Electoral Commission (EC) to change the election date from December 7 to November 7. As part of this proposal, the EC suggested declaring the new date as a holiday, discussed during engagements with political parties at IPAC meetings.

    However, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has reiterated its objection to the proposed change in the election date. This stance was reaffirmed during the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held on Monday, January 29.

    The NDC urged the public to disregard any conflicting reports and disclosed its support for altering the date for the 2028 general elections instead.

  • You can’t wait for an election year to introduce major Electoral Reforms – NDC to EC

    You can’t wait for an election year to introduce major Electoral Reforms – NDC to EC

    The National Democratic Congress’ Director of Elections, Dr. Omane Boamah, has asserted that the Electoral Commission (EC) cannot conduct the upcoming year’s election in November due to a delayed proposal.

    Dr. Boamah emphasizes that major electoral reforms should not be introduced in an election year, especially after a problematic District Level (Assembly) Elections marked by numerous postponements, ballot paper shortages, and complicity among election officers.

    On Monday, January 29, the NDC supported changing the national election day but proposed initiating the reform in 2028. This decision followed an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting discussing the EC’s proposal.

    Dr. Boamah, in a Facebook post, criticized the EC for waiting seven years after 2016 to revisit the election date issue, only to bring it up when there are just ten clear months until the December 07 presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana.

    “You don’t wait for an election year to introduce major Electoral Reforms: a year in which the EC has so much to do after an abysmal District Level (Assembly) Elections characterised by postponements after postponements, shortage of ballot papers, some Election officers complicity among others,” he added.

    He questioned why the EC did not address these matters in the years following 2016 or after the 2020 elections, emphasizing the impracticality of introducing major electoral reforms in an election year when the EC is already burdened.

    “Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission’s calendar of programmes and activities for the upcoming elections is not yet ready; hence, could not be released to political parties,” he added.

    Dr Boamah queried why the EC waited for January to end without stakeholders having the electoral calendar for the 2024 elections.

    “Why did the EC not introduce these discussions, adjustments, and amendments in 2017, 2018, 2019, or better still, why not after the 2020 elections? As in, introducing the subject matter in 2021, 2022, and 2023?”

    “This amendment of a non-entrenched clause requires two-thirds of MPs to pass, meanwhile the MPs themselves must be in their constituencies for some parts of this year campaigning, facilitating the registration of voters when the EC finally decides. Not to think of the duration of the process and other germane issues the EC must
    bring to the front burner,” he added.

    Moreover, Dr. Boamah points out that the EC has not released the calendar of programs and activities for the upcoming elections, making it challenging for political parties to prepare.

    He urged the EC to amend Article 112 (4) of the 1992 constitution, highlighting the logistical challenges involved in the process, especially with MPs needing to be in their constituencies for campaigning and voter registration.

    In summary, Dr. Omane Boamah criticizes the EC’s timing and approach to electoral reforms, advocating for a more strategic and timely implementation to ensure a smooth electoral process.

  • Change in election date should take effect in 2028 – NDC

    Change in election date should take effect in 2028 – NDC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed support for changing the date of national elections but suggests implementing the reform from 2028.

    This stance comes after an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting where the Electoral Commission (EC) proposed moving the election date from December 7 to November 7.

    The NDC had initially opposed the proposal but, following the meeting, the party’s Director of Elections, Dr. Omane Boamah, stated that they now agree to the reform, proposing a delayed implementation starting in 2028. He mentioned that this decision was reached by consensus.

    “The NPP agreed that the date of effectiveness should not be 2024. They agreed,” adding that “The EC only convenes the meeting and listens to the consensus.”

    Contrary to the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) suggestion of implementing the election date change from 2028, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) asserts that they prefer the reform to be applied for the 2024 election.

    Evans Nimako, Director of elections for the NPP noted “Others who said the EC should consider changing it said it could be considered in 2028. So what is this position that the NPP supported the position that should be done in the next elections? Do they speak for us?

    “They had said that if elections were to be conducted today, they are going to be the victorious party. And even if EC says that they are bringing it earlier so you win, you are still running away from it.”

  • EC, political parties to deliberate on date for 2024 elections

    EC, political parties to deliberate on date for 2024 elections

    On Monday, January 29, the Electoral Commission (EC) is scheduled to convene with various political parties at the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting to continue discussions on its proposal to change the date for the general elections.

    The proposed amendment suggests shifting the date for both Presidential and Parliamentary elections from December 7 to November 7.

    The Opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed opposition, citing concerns that the proposed timeline may not provide the EC with sufficient time to organize a seamless election.

    In contrast, sources within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) suggest that the party’s leadership is still deliberating on the matter before arriving at a decision.

    In a noteworthy development, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has reversed its earlier decision to boycott IPAC meetings. The party communicated this reversal in a statement dated Sunday, January 28, 2024, signed by its General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey.

    IPAC meetings play a crucial role in facilitating a platform for political parties to review election-related activities and policies, express grievances officially, and contribute constructive inputs.

    Additionally, IPAC serves as an advisory body to the Electoral Commission.

    The NDC’s leadership had boycotted IPAC meetings in 2021, citing perceived bias and lack of transparency during the 2020 general elections. However, in their recent statement, the NDC stated that the decision to rescind the boycott was made through “enhanced consensus-building.”

  • NDC withdraws decision not to attend IPAC meetings

    NDC withdraws decision not to attend IPAC meetings

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has withdrawn its decision to stay out of IPAC meetings.

    The decision was announced in a statement signed by the General Secretary of the party, Fiifi Kwetey.

    IPAC meetings are aimed at giving the various political parties the opportunity to review election-related activities and policies, officially air their grievances and make constructive inputs.

    It also serves as an advisory body to the Electoral Commission.

    The leadership of the NDC boycotted IPAC meetings in 2021, citing “lack of candour, odious duplicity, and open bias that was displayed by the Jean Mensah-led Electoral Commission in favour of the New Patriotic Party in the conduct of the 2020 general elections.”

    In its recent statement, the NDC said it has rescinded the decision after “enhanced consensus-building.”

    Below is the full statement:

    NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS (NDC) RETURNS TO IPAC FOR ENHANCED CONSENSUS-BUILDING

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) announces its re-entry into the Inter-Party AdvisoryCommittee (IPAC).

    The NDC is optimistic about the revitalization of the IPAC, drawing inspiration from the robust Consensus Building Platform established during the tenures of Dr. Afari Djan and Charlotte Osei as Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission of Ghana.

    The party anticipates collaborative endeavours that will strengthen Ghana’s electoral system, benefiting not only individual political parties but also upholding the democratic values of the nation.

    Signed,

    Fifi Fiavi Kwetey

    General Secretary.

  • Nov 7 date will help us have ample time to deliver – EC justifies

    Nov 7 date will help us have ample time to deliver – EC justifies

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has provided justification for its proposal to shift the date of the upcoming general election from December 7 to November 7, 2024

    The proposed shift in the election date, according to the Commission will serve as a measure to afford the EC ample time to execute its responsibilities effectively.

    During an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) a meeting on Monday, January 22, 2024, the deputy chairperson of the Electoral Commission in charge of Corporate Services, Dr Bossman Asare stated that “organising the elections within three weeks will be very tight”.

    He added that” Beyond that, the time for the inauguration you have a new government and an old government leaving office, the time will be too short”.

    According to him, the EC had been advocating for a change in the election date long before the church’s petition.

    “Let me state very clearly that it had nothing to do with what the Adventist Church brought in the form of a petition,” he added.

    This justification comes after Chairperson of the Commission, Jean Mensa, proposed that the Commission is contemplating a shift in the election date from December 7 to November 7.

  • Proposal to change election date to Nov 7 not a response to SDA’s petition – EC clarifies

    Proposal to change election date to Nov 7 not a response to SDA’s petition – EC clarifies

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has clarified that its proposal to move the general election day to November 7 is unrelated to a petition by the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

    The current December 7 date coincides with a Saturday in 2024, prompting the suggestion for a change.

    Chairperson Jean Mensa, who presented the proposal at an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on January 22, 2024, also advocated for the election day to be declared a public holiday.

    Jean Mensa asserted that such a move could enhance civic engagement and contribute to a stronger democratic culture.

    This aligns with a recent proposal from the Seventh-day Adventist Church, citing religious considerations for changing the election date.

    The church, designating Saturday, December 7, 2024, as a day of worship, petitioned the Attorney-General’s office to amend the election day.

    However, Dr. Bossman Asare, the deputy chairperson of the Electoral Commission in charge of Corporate Services, clarified that the EC had been advocating for a change in the election date long before the church’s petition.

    “Let me state very clearly that it had nothing to do with what the Adventist Church brought in the form of a petition.

    “This was something the Commission had thought about from 2020, but we did not have enough time to be able to put it into action in 2020. Yesterday [Monday], when we met at IPAC, we made it very clear to the parties that this was a proposal that came from the political parties themselves in 2015,” he said.

    He indicated that the move to change the date for the election is to allow for more time to correct mistakes as well as adequate time for run-offs in the event that they are needed.

    “The reason they gave at the time was that in the event there was a run-off, the EC will have exactly 21 days, and right after the 21 days, the next one week would be the inauguration.

    “Apart from that too, we gave a reason that the time for the EC to work on organising the elections within three weeks will be very, very tight. Beyond that, the time for the inauguration you have a new government and an old government leaving office, the time will be too short,” he added.

    He stated that political parties initiated the proposal in 2015, emphasizing the need for more time to address errors and accommodate potential run-offs.

    The move aims to provide the EC with a 21-day window for a run-off and additional time for the inauguration process.

    Mr Asare emphasized that the proposed change was not influenced by the Adventist Church’s petition but was a result of concerns raised by political parties in 2015.

  • NDC must offer apology to EC before rejoining IPAC – Fmr Manhyia North MP

    NDC must offer apology to EC before rejoining IPAC – Fmr Manhyia North MP

    Former NPP Member of Parliament (MP) for the Manhyia North constituency, Collins Owusu Amankwah, has strongly rebuked the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for its announced intention to rejoin the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).

    IPAC serves as a platform where political parties in Ghana collaborate with the Electoral Commission to establish agreements related to electoral processes.

    The NDC, during a stakeholder conference organized by the National Peace Council, revealed its decision to end its abstention from IPAC meetings.

    However, Amankwah expressed skepticism about the sincerity of the NDC’s return, emphasizing that the opposition party must first address and rectify its past actions.

    “We will return to IPAC, but outstanding issues have to be resolved,” NDC National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah stated, citing lack of consensus building as the reason for the party’s exit from IPAC.

    “IPAC was put together by the parties with the Electoral Commission, EC, the Referee…We are impressed with the Olive Branch extended to us…but we must make sure that the issues are resolved,” he added.

    He specifically pointed to the need for the NDC to issue an apology to the Electoral Commission.

    During their absence from IPAC, the NDC had levied accusations and implications against both the Electoral Commission and the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    In his remarks on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” morning programme, Amankwah underscored that the NDC should demonstrate genuine remorse and accountability for its previous indictments before considering a return to IPAC.

    He insisted that an apology to the Electoral Commission is essential as part of rebuilding trust and fostering a cooperative atmosphere within the political landscape.

  • NDC rejoins IPAC after 3-year absence

    NDC rejoins IPAC after 3-year absence

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has agreed to rejoin the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) following an intervention by the National Peace Council (NPC).

    The decision was made at a stock-taking conference in Peduase, Eastern Region, where institutional progress towards credible, transparent, and peaceful general elections in 2024 was evaluated.

    The NDC had boycotted IPAC meetings since March 2020, citing dissatisfaction with the Electoral Commission’s handling of decisions made at IPAC meetings.

    The National Peace Council and the Electoral Commission appealed to the NDC to rejoin IPAC, and the party accepted the request during the conference.

    “We miss the fire of the NDC at IPAC meetings and we invite them,” Mrs Mensa said.

    In response to the call, Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, National Chairman of the NDC, expressed the party’s commitment to supporting efforts to shape the country’s democratic and electoral processes.

    He stated that the NDC accepted to rejoin IPAC. However, he emphasized that before the party would participate in the next IPAC meeting, the Electoral Commission must ensure that IPAC returns to its “consensus-building” approach to implementing electoral reforms.

    “On behalf of the Party, we accept the appeal from the National Peace Council that we should consider returning to IPAC, but we want to return to IPAC and not any other forum. 

    “The other side is for us to work to make sure that IPAC returns to its consensus-building days…the issues that blocked our return should be dealt with before our next IPAC meeting,” Mr Nketia said. 

    He also expressed concern about the EC’s efforts to make the Ghana Card the sole identification document for the Commission’s proposed continuous voter registration exercise. The NDC argued that this move had the potential to disenfranchise about 1 million voters, a position that the EC had debunked.

    “We will support it if everyone had the Ghana Card,” Mr Nketia said. 

    Ms Kathleen Addy, Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), said the 2024 Election was peculiar in the wake of political instability in the West Africa Sub-region. 

    “We are more vulnerable than before. We must work with each other and assure each other so that we can arrive at the elections and beyond the elections in peace and intact,” she said. 

  • No advisory role, no return to IPAC – NDC

    The Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has expressed the party’s willingness to participate in Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meetings should the committee return the party to its original purpose.

    During an appearance on PM Express on JoyNews, Mr. Nketia emphasized that, from the NDC’s perspective, IPAC currently holds no significance, as the Electoral Commission appears unresponsive to the input and advice provided by the committee.

    “The political parties that have been attending IPAC, are they not the ones who are joining us now in court against what the Electoral Commission has done? They went to IPAC, learned about what to do with this voter’s registration and everything they decided upon, the Electoral Commission came out to announce the opposite.”

    “Everything you do, there must be an objective, there must be a motive. If the motive behind IPAC is for us to go and seek consensus, and you have come to the conclusion that consensus cannot be sought at the IPAC, you are wasting your time going to sit there,” Mr Nketia said.

    He stated that if the Electoral Commission is willing to restore IPAC to its role as a consensus-building forum, the NDC will not hesitate to participate in meetings and actively contribute to discussions aimed at improving the governance of Ghana.

    “If you are calling us to school, it means we are going to study. If you go to school and then you don’t study anything, would you continue going there and your parents be paying the school fees? No. That’s the reason why IPAC was established. So let us go back and use the IPAC to be building the consensus. But if IPAC is not going to be used to build consensus, then that meeting is not IPAC.”

    Since March 2020, the NDC has refrained from participating in IPAC meetings due to concerns it raised about the Electoral Commission’s conduct.

    Conversely, the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has extended an appeal to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to rejoin the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).

    Evans Nimako, the Director of Research and Elections at the NPP, emphasized the importance of the opposition party’s return to IPAC. He stressed that this move would ensure the NDC’s representation in decisions that are relevant to all stakeholders.

    “IPAC has been meeting; the New Patriotic Party has always been honouring invitations from the EC. We cannot force other parties to come or not to come, but if you check from the EC you realise that anytime IPAC has been held the party has enquired about the steps the EC has taken to invite the NDC.

    “If you look at the current CI, the 91, it says that the EC must conduct continuous registration and it says also that there must be a modality committee and that committee has been formed at IPAC. We expected NDC to be part, to be around so that we can all discuss issues that will take onboard the interest of all stakeholders and this they’ve reneged. So we’ll rather continue to call on them to come back to IPAC for all parties to discuss,” he said.

  • NPP admonishes NDC to return to IPAC

    The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to rejoin the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).

    This request follows the NDC’s expression of numerous concerns regarding the use of the new Constitutional Instrument (CI) by the Electoral Commission (EC) during the ongoing limited voter registration exercise.

    During a roundtable discussion organized by a coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Accra, the Director of Elections for the NPP, Evans Nimako, expressed the opinion that the NDC’s return to IPAC would provide the most effective avenue for addressing their concerns.

    “If you look at the current CI, the 91, it says that the EC must conduct continuous registration and it says also that there must be a modality committee and that committee has been formed at IPAC. We expected NDC to be part, to be around so that we can all discuss issues that will take on board the interests of all stakeholders,” Nimako said.

    “And this they have reneged. And so we will rather continue to call on them to come back to IPAC for all parties to discuss,” he added.

    The NDC has boycotted IPAC meetings since 2020, citing concerns about the EC’s neutrality and independence.

  • We don’t see the need to attend IPAC – NDC

    We don’t see the need to attend IPAC – NDC

    National Youth Organiser of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), George Opare Addo, insists that the party will not waste its time attending the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meetings.

    According to him, the opinions of the party are hardly accepted as they are shut down by the Electoral Commissioner, Jean Mensa.

    He noted that the EC Chair has forced the party to opt out of IPAC.

    “We have been told by Jean Mensa that IPAC cannot advise her on things we have to do. On many occasions, we have gone on IPAC meetings and made some suggestions, and Jean Mensa has been bold enough to tell us that she doesn’t need our suggestions. We don’t see the need to attend IPAC,” he said.

    The main opposition party withdrew its participation from IPAC after the 2020 general elections, accusing the leadership of the EC of alleged bias in favour of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The NDC accused the EC of overseeing the manipulation of the 2020 general elections.

    Meanwhile, the former Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr. Kwadwo Afari Gyan, has urged members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to rescind their boycott of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).

    While addressing the 3rd Annual Conference of the NDC Lawyers Association in Akosombo in the Eastern Region, Dr. Afari Gyan emphasized the opportunities that IPAC offers to the various political parties.

    “The IPAC makes it possible for political parties to know and make inputs to the important thing the Electoral Commission is doing at any point in time. It makes it possible to discuss the concerns of the parties and makes it possible to contribute to the making of subsidiary legislation, and I will appeal to the NDC to go back.”

    “Don’t worry if your ideas are not adopted, please go there and make your ideas felt. Indeed, in some cases, IPAC is the forum for stakeholder dialogue towards achieving common ownership of the electoral system. Under Ghana’s Electoral system, there are many opportunities for political parties to participate in Electoral processes that promote free and fair elections,” Dr Afari Gyan advised.

  • Rejoin IPAC for valuable opportunities and engagement – Afari Gyan to NDC

    Rejoin IPAC for valuable opportunities and engagement – Afari Gyan to NDC

    The former Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr. Kwadwo Afari Gyan, has called on members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to reconsider their withdrawal from the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).

    The NDC opted out of IPAC following allegations of EC bias in favor of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) after the 2020 general elections, accusing the EC of election manipulation.

    Dr. Afari Gyan highlighted the value of IPAC as a platform for political parties to influence EC decisions and contribute to subsidiary legislation during his address at the 3rd Annual Conference of the NDC Lawyers Association in Akosombo.

    He encouraged the NDC to rejoin IPAC, emphasizing the importance of participating in electoral processes that promote free and fair elections within Ghana’s electoral system.

    The NDC declined an invitation to an IPAC meeting scheduled for April 21, 2021, which aimed to review the December 7, 2020, general elections.

    “The National Democratic Congress (NDC), declined an invitation by the Electoral Commission of Ghana to attend an IPAC meeting to review the 2020 Parliamentary and Presidential Elections which was scheduled for Wednesday 21st April 2021. The party took this decision because of the lack of candour, odious duplicity, and open bias that was displayed by the Jean Mensah-led Electoral Commission in favour of the New Patriotic Party in the conduct of the 2020 general elections,” the NDC said in a statement.

    The party cited concerns about the EC’s alleged bias in favor of the NPP during the elections and expressed doubts about the impartiality of the EC’s leadership in facilitating discussions on the contested elections.

    “It is the considered view of the NDC, that the current leadership of the Electoral Commission who supervised the manipulation of the 2020 general elections and the stolen verdict that resulted from same, lack the integrity, credibility and impartiality to lead any such discussions or review of the very elections they rigged,” it said.

  • A fair election is hinged on an effective IPAC – Afari Gyan

    A fair election is hinged on an effective IPAC – Afari Gyan

    Former Chairman of Ghana’s Electoral Commission, Dr. Kwadwo Afari Gyan, has emphasized the significance of the Inter Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) in bolstering political parties’ involvement in electoral processes, thereby ensuring fair and credible elections in the country.

    In 2021, the largest opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), completely withdrew from IPAC. This decision followed a series of boycotts leading up to the 2020 general election, with the NDC accusing the Jean Mensah-led Electoral Commission of displaying bias and disregarding their suggestions and inputs during IPAC meetings.

    With the apparent breakdown of IPAC, in 2019, the Electoral Commission launched a 21-member Eminent Advisory Committee (EAC) aimed at improving engagement and interactions between the commission and the public in the lead-up to the 2020 elections.

    Speaking on the topic of “Free and Fair Elections” at the 3rd Annual Lawyers Conference of the NDC Lawyers Association in Akosombo, located in the Eastern Region, Dr. Kwadwo Afari Gyan asserted that IPAC is the foremost forum for ensuring the active participation of political parties in electoral processes and decision-making, which in turn enhances the prospects of free and fair elections.

    As the country gears up for another critical election, Dr. Afari Gyan, who served as the longest-serving former chairman of Ghana’s Electoral Commission, recommended that IPAC be revitalized and made effective once again.

    “Under Ghana’s Electoral system, there are many opportunities for political parties to participate in Electoral processes in was that promotes free and fair election. Of singular importance is the inter party advisory committee (IPAC).The IPAC makes is possible for political parties to know and make inputs to the important thing the electoral commission is doing at any point in time”.

    Dr. Afari Gyan added “It makes it possible to discuss concerns of the parties and makes it possible to contribute to the making of subsidiary legislation. Indeed in some, the IPAC is the forum for stakeholder dialogue towards achieving common ownership of the electoral system”.

    He also called on the government to provide the necessary financial resources to the Electoral Commission (EC) to ensure that the commission doesn’t resort to shortcuts in any of its electoral activities.

    However, former Director of Elections, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, believes that Electoral Commissioner Jean Mensah maintains a biased stance, evident in the decision to proceed with a limited registration process at the district level instead of electoral areas. This decision, he argues, could potentially disenfranchise many eligible voters.

    He urged concerned and responsible Ghanaians to voice their concerns regarding the EC’s actions to prevent potential consequences, especially at a time when the geopolitical environment in West Africa is becoming increasingly vulnerable to political instability.

    “On countless occasions we made what we considered to be valuable inputs. Sometimes supported by the other side. I can cite so many cases for example the last registration exercise before 2020 election. We are going into an election can we consider to go back only for the EC to display such behavior to other minority parties. The very reasons we left they have been fed with same medicine”.

    He said the NDC is not the problem in the impasse, but the EC. 

    “The problem is not us. The problem is the attitude, stance and Posturing of the Electoral Commission. Why do we go to IPAC? We go to IPAC so that we can make inputs. It doesn’t mean that whatever we say should be taken hook line and sinker. There is history of IPAC, suggestions are made, it  is shaped it is agreed and disagreed but we reach consensus this has been the tradition since 1993. What is it about this current EC that they will not take any input irrespective of how sanguine it is,“ Elvis Afriyie Ankrah  lamented.

  • SSNIT halts investment in non-profit ventures

    The Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, has stated that Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) will change its policy and refrain from investing in non-profit social ventures. The aim is to protect the funds of contributors and ensure their financial security.

    Concerns were raised by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) after the 2021 Auditor General’s report showed that 10 companies, including Metro Mass Transit and Kumasi Abattoir, had not paid dividends to SSNIT for the past decade.

    PAC emphasized the need for SSNIT to manage funds effectively to ensure timely payment of members’ benefits.

    The Minister acknowledged the importance of good investments to maintain the value of contributions and assured that SSNIT’s policy direction would prioritize profit-driven ventures, especially for companies like Metro Mass Transit and Kumasi Abattoir, which provide social services.

    The Minister asserted that SSNIT’s financing of social projects would undergo a policy decision review to ensure contributors’ funds are utilized optimally and profitability is prioritized going forward.

  • Return to IPAC – National Peace Council urges NDC

    Return to IPAC – National Peace Council urges NDC

    The National Peace Council expresses optimism that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will rejoin the Inter Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).

    The NDC has consistently been absent from meetings of IPAC due to what it describes as the hostile attitude of the Electoral Commission (EC).

    But the Chairperson of the Conflict Resolution Committee of the National Peace Council Joana Adzoa Opare says the council is continually engaging the party to return.

    “The National Peace Council seeks to promote the collectiveness in addressing any unforeseen or foreseen challenges that will enable full participation of all political parties in the Inter Party Advisory Committee meetings, particularly for the NDC to work towards return to IPAC. And we all know how very important this is,” the Chairperson of the Conflict Resolution Committee of the National Peace Council urged the NDC during a meeting with leaders of various political parties on January 26, 2023.

    Madam Joana assured that the National Peace Council will continue to create a platform of engagements between the various political parties towards sustainable peace in the country.

    “It is the conviction that the National Peace Council will create a platform for fraternising continuous engagements and discuss objectively strategic means of strengthening relationships among the political parties towards sustainable peace of Ghana,” Chairperson of the Conflict Resolution Committee of the National Peace Council said.

  • EC not prepared to accept NDC back into IPAC – Mahama

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has said the Electoral Commission(EC) is reluctant in accepting the largest opposition NDC back into the Inter-Party Advisory Committee(IPAC).

    The former leader disclosed that several moves undertaken by the Peace Council toward reaching a middle ground with the EC, and the two leading parties on the NDC’s return to IPAC have proved futile.

    “The Peace Council has invited them for the last 8 months. The Electoral Commission can’t find time to sit with the Peace Council and after that have a joint meeting between the two biggest parties so that we can go back to IPAC. They’re not interested,” Mr Mahama told the Voice of America in Washington.

    However, the Deputy Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC) in charge of Corporate Services, Dr. Bossman Asare has indicated that the EC is under no compulsion to force all political parties to attend IPAC and other EC-related meetings.

    “One thing which must be clear is that parties coming to IPAC, the EC cannot force any political party to come to IPAC,” he told Joy FM after the NDC withdrew from the IPAC last year.

    Meanwhile, the NDC has proposed that the IPAC and its advisory role in the electoral process should be given legal backing, without encroaching on the constitutional independence of the Electoral Commission.

  • PNC shouldn’t have walked out of IPAC meeting – Atik rebukes National Organiser

    General Secretary of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Atik Mohammed has condemned the party’s boycott of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting with the Electoral Commission on the compilation of a new voters’ register.

    The Electoral Commission called for an IPAC meeting on Wednesday, May 27, 2020 but the PNC National Organizer, Desmond Twumasi Ntow walked out of the meeting after questioning a Deputy Chairman of the EC, Dr Bossman Asare, on why the Commission has not responded to the party’s letter objecting to the format of the meeting.

    The National Organizer, who went to represent the PNC at the IPAC meeting, told the media that his walk-out was because of the response he received from Dr. Bossman Asare.

    ”I came here purposefully to inquire why the EC has not been able to respond to our letter and the response I got was that then why are you here, so I walked out,” he said.

    Addressing the issue on Peace FM’s ‘Kokrokoo’, Atik Mohammed rebuked Mr. Twumasi Ntow for exhibiting such conduct at the IPAC meeting.

    He stated emphatically that the PNC supports the EC to exercise its constitutional mandate to compile a new voters’ register, stressing that the party’s position on IPAC meeting is not to stage a walk-out.

    He further disclosed he (Atik Mohammed) was supposed to be present and not the party’s National Organizer but he got embroiled in other equally relevant matters and so couldn’t attend the meeting.

    To him, Mr. Twumasi Ntow’s character doesn’t reflect the position of the PNC.

    He was however not surprised at the conduct of the party’s National Organizer during the meeting saying he went to do the bidding of the Inter-Party Resistance Against New Voter Register [IPRAN]; a group that he belongs to.

    “Let it be on record that was not the PNC position; to go and stage a walk-out at IPAC. It has never been our position and it wasn’t our position yesterday…I wasn’t surprised that he went to do what he did because he’s part of that group that says they will disrupt the Electoral Commission should the Commission go ahead to do what the law permits them to do . . . It doesn’t mean I should know what that group means and what it stands for. I just see they are all over the place shouting; sometimes saying things which are very treasonable,” he said.

    Source: Peace FM

  • NDCs absence at IPAC allowed sanity to prevail – Kofi Akpaloo

    Founder of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), Mr. Kofi Akpaloo says he was happy the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) failed to show up at the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Wednesday.

    The presidential candidate told Kwabena Agyapong on Rainbow Radio 87.5Fm that the NDC had nothing meaningful to add to the deliberations that the various parties had with the Electoral Commission (EC) concerning its preparedness towards the compilation of the new register.

    Mr. Akpaloo said the compilation of the new register is a must and the only way for us to have free, fair, credible and transparent elections this year.

    The presence of the NDC he said would have amounted to nothing considering their position on the new register.

    ”The LPG as a party is satisfied with the arrangements of the EC and we are fully in support of the new register. We cannot go into this election with a register that is fraught with irregularities, he stated.

    ”The absence of the NDC at IPAC was good for the meeting. Sanity prevailed in the absence. They are troublesome and as a politician, I pray their party will collapse to save this country from their troubles. The high rate of unemployment and difficulties we have encountered as a country is their fault.”

    Meanwhile, the EC has hinted it will conduct the compilation of the new register in five clusters.

     

    The Director of Electoral Services at the EC, Dr. Serebour Quaicoe disclosed this to journalists after an Inter-Party Advisory meeting on Wednesday.

    He said the exact date for the registration exercise would be announced later but it is expected to start in the last week of June 2020.

    “This time around we are using five registration centres per a cluster. So assuming you have 15 polling stations, you divide the 15 by five, so that you have 10 clusters. And each cluster will form one registration team and each team will be made up of two registration officers, two data entry clerks, one registration officer special duties, he will be in charge of commuting between the team and the district office as well as exporting data and the rest, then we will have the laminator.”

    “So each phase for the five,… will last for six days. So what it means is that the registration officers will go to the first phase of the five polling station centre in that cluster. So when they go to the first cluster, they will be there for six days, and when they are there for six days, on the 7th day, they will rest due to the rush and interaction and then they will move to the next registration centre in the second phase for another six days and one day to retool and then they will go to the third phase…”

     

    Source: rainbowradioonline.com

  • Heavy security presence at EC as IPAC meeting holds

    There is heavy security presence at the premises of the EC as personnel of the Ghana Police Service (GPS) have been deployed to the premises where IPAC meeting on the compilation of a new voters register is ongoing.

    The reason for the presence of the over 70 police officers at the Electoral Commission is not clear.

    Over 15 political parties were invited to attend the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting which is expected to be held in two groups. The first session began at 10am while the second is set to begin at 2pm

    However, the largest opposition party, National Democratic Congress (NDC) remains adamant that it will not participate in the meeting adding that it (IPAC meeting) has been improperly arranged.

    Peter Otokunor, a Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, stating a walkout by this party on March 25, 2020, established that “That meeting does not constitute a proper IPAC meeting because they had divided one committee into groups; you may want to call it double tracking, to decide on the same issue. And we think that with any such an approach, you are not going to properly appreciate and understand the issue and contributions from various political parties and we believe that, decision making will be problematic.”

    The NPP, in response, said that the decision by the NDC was unsurprising but maintained that the meeting would come on regardless.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • NDC, PNC walk out of IPAC meeting

    Some four political parties including the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the People’s National Convention (PNC) walked out of an ongoing Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting.

    In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, the EC in line with the President’s directive on public gathering resolves to divide the parties into two different groups and thus asking one member to represent each party.

    Chairman of the PNC Bernard Monah is unhappy with the EC’s arrangement and believes the EC should have chosen a bigger venue to contain all representatives.

    The NDC earlier sent a request to the EC to postpone all future meetings indefinitely due to the Covid-19 outbreak but the EC says it can not grant such a request.

    They also requested that if the activities of the EC is essential then a bigger venue should be chosen for such a meeting going forward.

    The meeting is currently underway and the NPP, PPP and representatives from the LPG are engaging the EC.

    This is not the first time the NDC has walked out of an IPAC meeting as they did the same in December last year.

    The EC will also meet APC and the other less active political parties all in the name of discussing whether there should be a postponement for the April 8 Voter’s registration exercise or not.

    The Electoral Commission has had to deal with firm opposition ever since the decision to compile a new Voters’ Register surfaced.

    Even though there are calls by these opposition parties to rescind this decision, the EC says the compilation of the voters’ register will begin in April.

     

    Source: primenewsghana.com