The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has urged its supporters to actively monitor the collation of election results, describing it as a legal right and an essential part of the democratic process. Addressing the media on December 7, NDC Communications Officer Sammy Gyamfi encouraged party members and the general public to observe the collation process while adhering to electoral guidelines.
Collation as a Public Process
Gyamfi emphasized that the collation of results is a transparent and public exercise, not one shrouded in secrecy. He explained that while polling agents officially represent political parties at collation centres, members of the general public are permitted to observe from a distance of at least 100 meters.
“That exercise is not an exercise in secrecy; it’s a public exercise,” Gyamfi stated. “It is just like the sorting out of the ballot papers, which is done at the collation level. Members of the public can observe the sorting, counting, and declaration of results.”
Call for Vigilance
The NDC urged its supporters to remain vigilant during the collation process and to report any irregularities to the appropriate authorities. Gyamfi reiterated the importance of transparency, stating that the process must be open to public scrutiny to ensure credibility.
He further challenged the Electoral Commission (EC) and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to embrace transparency, saying, “If the NPP and the EC have nothing to hide, they should join us in inviting members of the public to come and observe the collation process.”
Dismissing NPP Concerns
Gyamfi dismissed recent complaints from the NPP about public involvement in the collation process, describing their concerns as unwarranted. He criticized the ruling party for attempting to stifle public participation in a process that has been open to observation since Ghana’s return to democratic governance in 1992.
“Jean Mensa, Bossman Asare, and Samuel Tettey-led EC cannot change this, nor can the failed outgoing NPP government change it. Ignore the lamentations of our friends in the NPP, who have all of a sudden turned into evangelists,” Gyamfi stated.
Commitment to Electoral Integrity
The NDC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the election results and ensuring that the will of the people is respected. The party emphasized the importance of transparency, vigilance, and lawful conduct throughout the process.
As Ghanaians await the official results, the NDC’s call underscores the significance of collective responsibility in protecting the democratic process. The party has encouraged its supporters to remain peaceful and focused, contributing to a credible electoral outcome.
