The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana is set to conduct a Special Voting exercise today, Monday, December 2, across 14 regions in the country. This process, essential for the smooth running of the December 7 general elections, allows key stakeholders like security personnel, election officials, and media practitioners to cast their votes ahead of the main polls.
What is Special Voting, and Who Can Participate?
Special Voting is an integral part of Ghana’s electoral system, designed for individuals who will be on official duty during Election Day. This year, approximately 131,478 eligible voters, representing 0.007% of the total electorate of 18,741,159, are expected to participate in this early voting process.
However, the Eastern and Western Regions have been excluded from today’s exercise due to issues with compromised ballot security seals. The EC has announced that Special Voting in these two regions will now take place on Thursday, December 5, to ensure transparency and protect the integrity of the process.
Electoral Commission’s Commitment to Transparency
Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, has assured the public of a credible and seamless voting process in the 14 regions. She emphasized the EC’s dedication to addressing all concerns raised by stakeholders, reiterating that every measure has been taken to uphold the transparency and fairness of the elections.
Participants in the Special Voting exercise are required to follow strict guidelines, including presenting valid identification to polling officials. The polls are scheduled to open at 7 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. across designated polling stations.
What Happens to Special Votes?
Votes cast during the Special Voting exercise will not be counted immediately. Instead, they will be securely stored and tallied on December 7, alongside votes from the general election. At each Constituency Collation Centre, results from the Special Voting will be recorded separately on both the Presidential and Parliamentary Election Results Collation Forms before being merged with the overall election results.
Security Measures and Observers
To ensure a peaceful and orderly process, the National Election Security Taskforce has intensified security at polling centres. Political parties have also stationed agents at polling stations to monitor proceedings, while independent observers from various organizations are on hand to guarantee transparency.
Cooperation Encouraged for a Credible Election
The EC has called on all stakeholders, including political parties, voters, and observers, to cooperate fully with the guidelines. By adhering to these measures, the Commission aims to deliver a free, fair, and credible election.
With Ghana’s 2024 general elections just days away, this Special Voting exercise marks a critical milestone in the nation’s democratic process.
Source: InsiderGH.com
