The National Democratic Congress (NDC) plans a nationwide demonstration today, Tuesday, September 17, to protest against the Electoral Commission (EC). The NDC is accusing the EC of refusing to allow for a forensic audit of the voter register before the December elections. They allege that there are a number of anomalies, including illegal mass transfer of votes in many places.
The EC has maintained that all required corrections in the register have been effected following its exhibition of the provisional register, explaining that the whole essence of the exhibition of the register as demanded by the law (C.I. 91 (as amended by C.I. 126), is to help with corrections.
The NDC’s national chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah announced this protest on Monday, September 9, citing the party’s concerns over the EC’s handling of the election process. He also expressed dissatisfaction with what he said is the lack of updates on investigations involving the theft of some Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs), raising suspicions about transparency. Those of you who have been asking us what we would do if they did not comply, this is your answer: on the 17th of this month, the NDC is embarking on a massive nationwide demonstration in all 16 regional capitals,” he said.
In preparation for the demonstration, the Ghana Police Service has outlined guidelines to ensure order and safety. They emphasised the need for peaceful protests, requesting that demonstrators follow designated routes and timelines. The police also warned against any form of violence or property destruction during the demonstration, stating that offenders would face consequences, including potential surcharges for damage. Security personnel will be stationed across the protest routes to maintain peace and order.
