The Electoral Commission (EC) has affirmed its impartiality in the ongoing limited registration process, stating its commitment to fairness across all regions, constituencies, and zones.
Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Bossman Asare dismissed assertions suggesting the distribution of faulty equipment to certain areas or deliberate obstruction of registration in specific regions or constituencies, dismissing them as unfounded.
He attributed such claims to either a lack of understanding of the EC’s procedures or to deliberate attempts to tarnish its reputation among those familiar with its operations.
Addressing reporters on Monday, May 13, 2024, Dr. Asare emphasized the EC’s dedication to safeguarding the fundamental right of all eligible Ghanaian citizens, aged 18 and above, to register and vote.
He expressed regret over accusations of discrimination during the registration process, assuring the public that the EC remains committed to facilitating registration for all eligible individuals ahead of the December 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.
Dr. Asare highlighted the emergence of a notable trend during the initial six days of registration, revealing that nationally, a higher number of females than males have registered.
Out of the 251,149 registered voters, females constitute 54.11%, with 135,898 registrations, while males make up 45.89%, with 115,251 registrations.
Furthermore, he disclosed that first-time voters, aged between 18 and 21, constitute the majority of registered voters across all 16 regions, representing 88.02% of the total registrations nationwide, amounting to 221,066 individuals.
Dr. Asare concluded by noting that 382 persons with disabilities had been registered by the end of the sixth day of the exercise, underscoring the EC’s commitment to inclusive participation in the electoral process.
“The Commission understands that the right to register as a voter is a fundamental political right that must be protected for all Ghanaians who are at least 18 years old and meet the requirements for registration.
“Consequently, it’s unfortunate that some would accuse the Commission of discriminating against a section of Ghanaians in the registration exercise.”
“We wish to use this medium to again assure all Ghanaians that the Commission is committed to ensuring that all qualified persons get onto the Voters Register and vote in the December 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.
“It is in our interest to do so, and we take pride in the high percentage of the population who are registered voters.”
“Of the 251,149 registered voters, females constitute 135,898, which is 54.11%, and males are 115,251, which is 45.89%.”
The EC added, “First-time voters (those between the ages of 18 and 21) constitute the majority of registered voters in all 16 regions.
“Nationally, they represent 88.02% (that is, 221,066) of the total number of registered voters so far. At the end of Day Six, we had registered 382 persons with disabilities,” he added.