Ghana’s Electoral Integrity: Challenges and Concerns in the 2024 Elections

The 2024 Ghanaian elections have been marred by several challenges and concerns, raising questions about the integrity of the electoral process. Despite having a robust electoral framework, the Electoral Commission’s (EC) operational deficiencies have undermined public trust and confidence.

*Challenges and Concerns*

1. *Delay in Declaration of Results*: The EC’s slow pace in announcing results fueled tensions and distrust among political actors and the electorate.
2. *Discrepancies in Pink Sheets*: Inconsistencies between the EC’s pink sheets and those held by political parties have raised concerns about accuracy and equity.
3. *Lack of Transparency by the EC*: The EC’s opaque conduct, including missing Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) and procedural anomalies, has eroded public confidence.
4. *Inaction by Security Forces*: The lack of prompt intervention by security personnel in volatile areas escalated tensions and raised questions about the security apparatus.
5. *Non-Adherence to Governing Rules*: The EC’s failure to adhere to its own regulations and guidelines has fueled perceptions of bias and ineptitude.

*Proposed Solutions for Electoral Integrity*

To address these challenges and concerns, Ghana must leverage cutting-edge technologies, such as:

– *Blockchain Technology*: A decentralized and immutable framework for recording election results, eliminating the possibility of unauthorized alterations.
– *AI Discrepancy Detection*: Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems can scrutinize pink sheet data for anomalies, errors, or potential fraud, enhancing the precision and reliability of election outcomes.
– *Real-Time Monitoring and Collation*: Implementing real-time systems for monitoring, collating, and declaring results will bolster transparency and mitigate delays.
– *Compliance with Global Standards*: The EC must obtain certifications, such as ISO 27001 and ISO 9001, to ensure compliance with global standards.

By embracing these technological advancements and adhering to established regulations, Ghana can reinforce its democratic ethos and sustain its reputation as a bastion of democracy in Africa.

Source: Dr. Peter Nimbe – Senior Lecturer University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR),
Director of IT & Information Security – EHCM