The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has announced that it will no longer limit the number of media organizations covering activities at collation centers during the December 7 general elections. This decision comes after widespread criticism from media organizations and other stakeholders.
Initially, the EC issued a directive on November 25, 2024, restricting access to only eight accredited media organizations at collation centers in each constituency. The restriction was meant to address challenges caused by overcrowding and confusion at collation venues. However, the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) and the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) strongly opposed the move. They argued that it could harm transparency and reduce public trust in the election process.
Responding to the concerns, the EC has decided to review the policy. Dr. Bossman Asare, Deputy Commissioner of the EC, revealed the change during a forum in Accra. He stated that the initial plan was not intended to suppress media freedom but to maintain orderliness at collation centers. According to him, some areas in Ghana host up to 400 media outlets, which makes it difficult to accommodate everyone in smaller collation venues.
Dr. Asare explained, “Our goal was to avoid chaos at the collation centers, not to stop the media from doing their work. The media plays an important role in ensuring free and fair elections, and we fully respect that.”
The EC has now pledged to work closely with media associations to develop a fair system that guarantees transparency while ensuring collation centers remain organized and secure. This revised approach has been welcomed as a positive step that reflects the EC’s willingness to collaborate with stakeholders.
Dr. Asare also assured Ghanaians of the EC’s readiness to deliver a credible election. He emphasized the Commission’s commitment to maintaining or even surpassing the impressive 79% voter turnout recorded during the 2020 elections. He urged registered voters to participate fully in the upcoming polls.
“For every registered voter, we have printed both Presidential and Parliamentary ballots,” Dr. Asare said. “If you need to travel to vote, make the effort. Your vote is your voice, and it matters.”
He also called on political parties and candidates to educate their polling agents about the electoral process to avoid unnecessary disputes at polling stations. Stressing the importance of collaboration, Dr. Asare said, “All stakeholders have a role to play in ensuring a smooth election.”
The issue of security was also addressed. Dr. Asare reassured voters that the EC is working closely with law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and order on Election Day. He promised that the election results would reflect the genuine will of the people, adding that the EC has no interest in influencing the outcome.
The forum where this announcement was made was aimed at fostering consensus on key issues ahead of the elections. One of the speakers, Mr. Ato Afful, Managing Director of the Graphic Communications Group, reiterated his organization’s commitment to promoting democracy and transparency.
Mr. Afful urged Ghanaians, especially the youth, to behave responsibly during the elections. He reminded them that their actions on Election Day would have long-term consequences for the nation. He also called on political leaders to put the country’s welfare above partisan interests, saying, “The national interest should always come first.”
The EC’s decision to reconsider its media access policy has been widely appreciated. It shows a willingness to listen to feedback and work collaboratively to ensure a transparent and credible electoral process. By enabling the media to perform their duties effectively while maintaining order, the EC aims to build public trust in the election system.
As the December 7 elections approach, all eyes are on the EC to see how it manages this critical event. Ghana’s reputation for peaceful and transparent elections is a cornerstone of its democracy, and the EC has assured the public that it is fully committed to upholding these values.
The ongoing collaboration between the EC, media organizations, political parties, and security agencies underlines the shared responsibility of ensuring a successful election. Ghanaians are encouraged to stay informed, act responsibly, and participate fully in the democratic process.
With preparations in full swing and the EC demonstrating its dedication to transparency and fairness, the December 7 elections promise to be a genuine reflection of the people’s will. Voters are reminded of their civic duty to cast their ballots, as their participation is vital for the nation’s democracy.
The EC’s revised stance on media access, along with its emphasis on security and voter education, signals a strong commitment to delivering free, fair, and credible elections. Ghanaians can look forward to a process that respects their voice and strengthens the country’s democratic foundation.
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