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The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa has revealed plans to upload the summary of results sheets (pink sheets) on a dedicated online portal during the 2024 general election.
Mrs Mensa emphasized that this move is part of the EC’s commitment to promoting transparency in the electoral process.
She highlighted the EC’s intention to display the scanned signed pink sheets on a dedicated portal, expressing confidence that this arrangement will enhance transparency, foster trust, and encourage citizen involvement throughout the electoral process.
“This time around, we plan to display the scanned signed pink sheets on a dedicated portal. We are confident that this arrangement will promote transparency and engender further trust and confidence in our electoral processes. By so doing, we will also promote inclusion and involve the citizens throughout the process,” Mrs Mensa stated.
These reforms build on previous measures that led to the release of the 2020 general election results within 48 hours.
The conference, titled “Stock-Taking Conference as Part of the Preparations towards 2024 Elections,” was organized by the National Peace Council (NPC) in collaboration with the International Republican Institute (IRI) and funded by USAID.
It brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from political parties, the judiciary, civil society organizations, the EC, constitutional bodies, and security agencies.
Notable personalities at the conference included Justice Yonny Kulendi and Deputy Chairpersons Dr. Bossman Asare and Samuel Tettey.
Mrs. Mensa also announced additional reforms, including a 30% reduction in filing fees for women and persons with disabilities aspiring to be MPs. Another proposed reform is the adjustment of voting hours, suggesting closing polls at 3 p.m. instead of the usual 5 p.m., facilitating early counting of votes.
Despite the change in closing time, Mrs. Mensa clarified that voters in queues at 3 p.m. would still be allowed to vote. The EC believes that closing the polls at 3 p.m. will enable counting and collating to take place in broad daylight, promoting transparency and orderliness.
Justice Kulendi called for reforms to expedite the adjudication of electoral disputes, particularly those related to parliamentary elections.
He proposed holding elections in November to provide more time for dispute resolution before a new government takes office. Additionally, he urged a change in the rules of court to ensure timely resolution of parliamentary election petitions, similar to presidential election petitions.
Rev. Dr. Ernest Adu Gyamfi, Chairman of the NPC, emphasized the need to address warning signs and uphold key elements of good governance and peace. He expressed the hope that, with collective efforts, Ghana could conduct one of the best elections ever undertaken in Africa.
The conference was held in Peduase, near Aburi, Eastern Region.
SOURCE: DAILY MAIL GH with additional files from Daily Graphic
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