Several civil society organizations (CSOs), including Ghana’s Centre for Conflict Resolution (CENCOR), have condemned the Electoral Commission (EC) for denying them accreditation to observe the upcoming December 2024 elections.

CSOs argue that accredited election observers play a crucial role in safeguarding the election’s credibility. By overseeing the electoral process, they aim to prevent potential unrest among political party supporters who might otherwise doubt the election’s transparency.

The coalition of CSOs voiced their concerns at a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, with spokesperson Adib Sani accusing EC Chairperson Jean Mensah of taking a “dictatorial” stance. He said, “We vehemently decry this arbitrary decision by Mrs Mensah. It’s a severe blow to the democracy we have collectively worked so hard to build.”

Sani added that the EC’s move was not only a violation of the organizations’ rights to contribute to a fair electoral process but also raised questions about the EC’s dedication to an open and democratic election.

Mensah, who previously held prominent roles in civil society herself, has not yet responded publicly to these criticisms.

Source:TheDotNews