The Electoral Commission (EC) has clarified that the shortages of ballot papers for the upcoming 2024 general elections are not limited to the Volta and Bono Regions. This clarification follows reports indicating that only these two regions were experiencing such shortfalls.
During an emergency meeting of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) on November 29, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Bossman Asare noted that other regions are also facing similar issues with ballot paper availability. He further mentioned that two letters were dispatched to the political parties on November 22 and November 28 to update them on the situation.
“The shortfalls occurred in Greater Accra, Western North, Upper West, Western and Bono East Regions. The Volta and Bono regions were no exceptions. As in the case of the Volta Region, the political parties were informed in writing and the reprint was done to cover the shortfalls in those five regions. “Why the noise about the shortfalls of only the Volta region, if the Commission has anything to hide, will it transparently call for a reprint of the ballots to make up for the shortfalls?
“The Commission urges the general public, especially political parties to disregard mischief by persons whose only objective is to tarnish the commission and sow a seed of mistrust and doubts. The memo in circulation demonstrates the commission’s resolve to operate in a transparent and accountable manner.
“We entreat the general public and political parties to read memos carefully by the EC which may find their way on social media so as not to be swayed by persons whose sole agenda is to cause fear and panic and tarnish the image of the Commission ahead of the presidential and parliamentary elections.”
By: Leticia Osei
