Retired Justice of the Supreme Court, William Atuguba, has publicly supported the call for an audit of Ghana’s voter register, emphasizing that it’s essential to defend the constitution. Atuguba believes that auditing the register, as demanded by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), will address concerns surrounding its validity.
He cited Article 216 of the 1992 Constitution, highlighting the Electoral Commission’s duty to ensure fairness in the electoral process. Atuguba stressed that citizens have the right to insist on compliance with the Constitution and the law, especially when it comes to the voter register.
When asked if an audit would address current issues, Atuguba responded with an unequivocal “Absolutely,” referencing Article 296 of the Constitution. This article emphasizes the importance of fairness, transparency, and due process in the exercise of discretionary power.
Atuguba also criticized President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s appointments to the Electoral Commission, labeling them as “stooges.” He questioned the fairness and candor of these appointments, suggesting that they may be politically motivated.
The NDC organized a nationwide demonstration on September 17, demanding an audit of the voter register to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections. National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia emphasized that a credible register is crucial for Ghana’s democracy.
Ghana’s democracy has been considered stable, with a history of successful transitions and free elections since 1992. However, recent events have raised concerns about the country’s democratic landscape, including issues with press freedom and potential threats to the electoral process.
The country’s ranking in global democratic metrics has also raised concerns, with Ghana dropping on the press freedom index. These developments have sparked debates about the state of Ghana’s democracy and the need for transparency and accountability.
Atuguba’s call for an audit and the NDC’s demonstration reflect growing concerns about Ghana’s democratic health. Ensuring the integrity of the voter register is critical for maintaining public trust in the electoral process.
The Electoral Commission’s response to these demands will be crucial in addressing concerns and upholding the principles of fairness and transparency enshrined in Ghana’s Constitution.
As Ghana prepares for the 2024 elections, the international community is watching closely, with organizations like the USAID working to support Ghana’s democratic institutions and promote transparency and accountability.
