The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has expressed deep concern over reported violations of electoral laws during the Special Voting exercise on Monday, December 2, 2024, urging authorities to take swift action against offenders.
In a statement issued on December 3 and signed by its National Coordinator, CODEO highlighted serious breaches, including allegations of vote-buying and the photographing of cast ballots. The coalition criticized the inaction of some presiding officers and security personnel at polling stations where these violations occurred.
“CODEO is alarmed by the observed incidents of vote-buying and the photographing of cast ballots. It is concerning that some presiding officers and security officers did nothing to stop the violations. The Coalition is calling on the Ghana Police Service to take swift action against all such cases, including those reported in the media,” the statement said.
Reported Irregularities
CODEO noted that the Special Voting exercise was plagued by irregularities across multiple polling stations. Allegations of vote-buying involved voters reportedly receiving cash or other incentives in exchange for their votes.
Additionally, CODEO flagged instances where voters photographed their cast ballots, a violation of Ghana’s electoral laws designed to safeguard voter confidentiality and deter coercion or undue influence.
Call for Action
The coalition called on the Ghana Police Service and the Office of the Special Prosecutor to take decisive action against individuals involved in these electoral offences. It emphasized that punitive measures are essential to deter similar infractions during the general election on December 7, 2024.
“As a matter of urgency, the EC and the National Election Security Task Force must issue strict directives to presiding officers and security officers on what actions to take when they witness election offences. This will help forestall similar occurrences during the December 7 polls,” CODEO stated.
Appeal to Political Parties and Voters
CODEO also appealed to political parties to uphold electoral integrity and refrain from engaging in practices that compromise the process. It urged voters to reject inducements and freely exercise their right to vote without interference.
“CODEO calls on all political parties to refrain from these practices, which are deeply damaging to the integrity of the electoral process, and on voters to refuse any attempts of inducement and freely express their right to vote on December 7,” the statement added.
The coalition further urged the police to keep the public informed about ongoing investigations and actions taken against perpetrators to ensure transparency and accountability.
CODEO’s statement underscores the importance of adhering to electoral laws and maintaining the credibility of Ghana’s democratic process as the country approaches its general elections.
