The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has raised serious concerns regarding violations of electoral laws during the Special Voting exercise held on December 2, 2024. In a statement issued on December 3, CODEO called for immediate action against those responsible for the breaches.

The coalition highlighted alarming incidents, including allegations of vote-buying and the photographing of cast ballots, which compromise the integrity of the electoral process. CODEO criticized the apparent inaction of presiding officers and security personnel at polling stations, where these violations occurred.

“CODEO is alarmed by the observed incidents of vote-buying and the photographing of cast ballots. It is concerning that some presiding officers and security officers did nothing to stop the violations,” the statement read. The coalition urged the Ghana Police Service to take swift action against all reported cases, including those highlighted in the media.

Reports of irregularities during the Special Voting exercise emerged from multiple polling stations, where voters were allegedly offered cash or other incentives in exchange for their votes. Additionally, instances of voters photographing their ballots were noted, violating Ghana’s electoral laws designed to protect voter confidentiality and prevent undue influence.

CODEO emphasized the need for the police to act decisively against individuals involved in these violations, stressing the importance of setting a precedent to deter similar offenses ahead of the general election scheduled for December 7, 2024.

The coalition also called on the Electoral Commission (EC) and the National Election Security Task Force to issue strict directives to presiding officers and security personnel regarding their responsibilities when witnessing election offenses.

“CODEO urges the Ghana Police Service to keep the public informed about any investigations and the status of cases against perpetrators,” the statement added.

Furthermore, CODEO acknowledged the interest shown by the Office of the Special Prosecutor in these matters and urged all political parties to refrain from practices that undermine electoral integrity. The coalition encouraged voters to reject any attempts at inducement and to exercise their right to vote freely on December 7.

Source: TheDotNews