The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has raised concerns over violations of electoral laws during the Special Voting exercise held on Monday, December 2, calling for swift action against those responsible.
In a statement issued on December 3 and signed by CODEO’s National Coordinator, the coalition highlighted serious incidents, including allegations of vote-buying and the photographing of cast ballots.
CODEO expressed alarm that such actions compromise the integrity of the electoral process and criticized the apparent lack of intervention by presiding officers and security personnel at polling stations where these breaches 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 Coalition is calling on the Ghana Police Service to take swift action against all such cases, including those reported in the media.”
According to CODEO, the Special Voting exercise was marred by irregularities across the country. Allegations of vote-buying were reported in multiple polling stations, where voters were reportedly influenced with cash or other incentives in exchange for their votes.
The coalition also flagged instances of voters photographing their cast ballots, a violation of Ghana’s electoral laws designed to ensure voter confidentiality and prevent undue influence.
CODEO also called on the Ghana Police Service to take swift and decisive action against individuals involved in these violations.
It emphasised the importance of setting a precedent to deter similar offences during the general election on December 7, 2024.
CODEO also urged the police to keep the public informed about investigations and the status of any cases brought against perpetrators.
“As a matter of urgency, the EC and the National Election Security Task Force must issue strict directives to presiding officers and security offices on what actions to take when they witness election offences. This will help forestall similar occurrences during the December 7 polls.
“CODEO urges the Ghana Police Service to update the public on any such actions. CODEO acknowledges the interest taken by the Office of the Special Prosecutor in these matters. CODEO calls on all political parties to refrain from these practices, which are deeply damaging to the integrity of the electoral process, and on voters to refuse any attempts of inducement and freely express their right to vote on December 7.”
Click here to read CODEO’s full statement on the Special Voting.