The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has significantly increased the number of media accreditations for coverage at constituency and regional collation centres in the upcoming general elections. This adjustment raises the number of accredited journalists from an initial minimum of 3,308 to an expanded 4,500. This move is part of the EC's commitment to promoting transparency and ensuring widespread media representation during the collation of election results.
During a press conference held on November 29, 2024, the Chairperson of the EC, Jean Mensa, provided details about the decision. She revealed that the additional accreditation cards will be handed over to the leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) by Sunday evening. The responsibility for distributing these accreditation cards lies solely with the GJA and GIBA, as the EC clarified that it will play no role in the allocation process.
The EC emphasized that the decision to increase media access is in recognition of the vital role journalists play in the electoral process. Jean Mensa assured the public that the EC remains committed to working closely with the media before, during, and after the elections to foster credibility and public trust.
The earlier directive, which proposed a minimum of three television stations and five radio stations per constituency collation centre, and five television stations with seven radio stations per regional collation centre, had faced criticism for being too restrictive. However, the EC explained that this measure was meant to ensure basic coverage rather than limit media access. The adjustment to 4,500 accreditations is a direct response to concerns raised by media stakeholders and reflects the EC's willingness to adapt to practical demands for better coverage.
The revised figure represents an increase of 1,192 additional accreditations over the initially proposed minimum. This expansion underscores the EC's understanding of the critical role media coverage plays in ensuring accountability and transparency in democratic processes.
Jean Mensa highlighted the EC's collaboration with media organizations, stating that the updated allocation was reached through discussions with the GJA and GIBA. These organizations are expected to ensure fair and equitable distribution of the accreditation cards to qualified journalists. Mensa also acknowledged space limitations at certain collation centres but expressed confidence that the expanded access will enable sufficient media representation across the country.
The EC reiterated its commitment to creating an enabling environment for journalists to operate freely and effectively. This includes upholding their role in providing accurate and timely information to the public during the critical stages of the electoral process. By increasing the number of media representatives at collation centres, the EC aims to foster greater transparency, reduce misinformation, and build public confidence in the election results.
This development comes as part of a broader effort by the EC to enhance the credibility of Ghana's electoral process. With the December General Election fast approaching, the EC continues to engage with stakeholders to address concerns and ensure a smooth and inclusive voting experience for all.
The decision to expand media accreditation aligns with Ghana's democratic principles, emphasizing the importance of an independent and pluralistic media in fostering accountability and informed citizen participation. By granting access to a wider pool of journalists, the EC is reinforcing its commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that the voices of the electorate are accurately represented.
This milestone underscores the significance of media collaboration in democracy and highlights the EC's proactive approach to resolving challenges in real time. As the elections draw closer, the expanded media access is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping public perception and promoting confidence in the electoral outcomes.
In a time when transparency is paramount, the EC’s initiative to broaden media coverage sets a positive precedent for other democratic institutions across the continent. With 4,500 journalists poised to cover the constituency and regional collation centres, Ghana is demonstrating its dedication to upholding press freedom and enhancing the democratic process.
This increase in media access not only marks a step forward for Ghana’s electoral system but also strengthens its reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa. As the nation prepares for the polls, all eyes will be on the EC to deliver a free, fair, and credible election, with the media playing an instrumental role in this endeavor.
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