We Have Nothing to Hide” – EC Addresses Ballot Paper Shortfall Reports

The Electoral Commission (EC) has reassured Ghanaians of its commitment to transparency and accountability following reports of ballot paper shortfalls in the Bono and Volta Regions ahead of the December 7 elections.

Discrepancies Identified Through Standard Checks

The EC explained that the discrepancies were uncovered by its regional staff during routine verification processes, a standard protocol to ensure the accuracy of printed and distributed ballot papers. This additional layer of verification, mandated by the EC, aims to address any inconsistencies before Election Day.

In a memo to political parties and printing houses, the Commission emphasized that this proactive measure is part of its accountability framework. These checks require regional and district staff to verify all received ballot papers against statistics provided to printers and political parties.

“It is the Commission’s staff at the regional level that discovered these issues and reported back to the Commission as required. It is the Commission that ordered the reprinting of the shortfalls and informed the political parties. The Commission has nothing to hide,” said Samuel Tettey, Deputy Chairman of Operations.

Measures to Address Shortfalls

The EC disclosed that similar ballot paper shortfalls were detected and resolved in other regions, including Greater Accra, Western North, Upper West, Western, and Bono East. Political parties were promptly informed in writing, and reprints were conducted to address the discrepancies. To maintain transparency, the Commission involved political parties in overseeing the reprinting process and the destruction of faulty ballot papers.

Response to Misinformation

The EC criticized misleading narratives on social media, particularly those focusing solely on ballot paper shortfalls in the Volta Region without acknowledging similar issues in other areas. The Commission described these claims as attempts to undermine its credibility and erode public trust in the electoral process.

“Why would the Commission inform political parties in writing if it had anything to hide? The memo in circulation demonstrates the Commission’s resolve to operate transparently and accountably,” Tettey reiterated.

Assurance to the Public

The Commission urged Ghanaians to disregard misinformation and instead seek clarity from official sources. It assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to safeguard the credibility and integrity of the elections.

As the polls draw closer, the EC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a fair, transparent, and credible electoral process.