Accompanied by growing criticism and demands for an extended voter registration exercise, the Deputy Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Serebuor Quaicoe, has mounted a staunch defence of the Electoral Commission’s decision. He emphasized that the primary objective of the Electoral Commission is to safeguard the sanctity of the voters’ register.
Addressing the media at a press conference, Dr. Quaicoe rebutted claims that expanding the limited voter registration exercise to include electoral areas was the optimal solution.
He contended that those advocating for such an expansion were primarily interested in boosting the number of new registrants rather than ensuring the register’s trustworthiness.
Dr. Quaicoe emphasized the capacity of district offices to maintain a clean and accurate voter register. He stated, “The Commission’s core objective is not only to register voters but also to preserve the sanctity of the register. This aspect is often overlooked. We are compiling a voters’ register that will determine the leadership of Ghana in various capacities. Therefore, the quality of data in the register is of utmost importance to prevent potential issues.”
The Electoral Commission has encountered substantial opposition from political parties, civil society organizations, and the general public regarding its decision to exclusively conduct limited voter registration at district offices. Critics argue that the inaccessibility of district offices and transportation costs necessitate a more decentralized approach, extending registration to electoral areas.
Dr. Quaicoe clarified that the ongoing district registrations are primarily geared toward preparing for the upcoming district-level elections. However, he assured the public that the Commission is planning to initiate another registration exercise next year, specifically targeting electoral areas.
This subsequent exercise will enable individuals who have reached the age of 18 and wish to participate in the district-level elections to register, contributing to a more comprehensive and accurate voters’ register.
