EU Applauds Ghana’s 2024 Elections, Recommends Reforms

The European Union (EU) Election Expert Mission has commended Ghana for the peaceful, transparent, and credible conduct of its 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections. Describing the overall electoral process as “positive,” the EU shared its final report during a brief ceremony in Accra on Tuesday evening. The report was presented by EU Ambassador to Ghana, Irchad Ramiandrasoa Razaaly, to Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC).

Ambassador Razaaly highlighted key findings from the two-month observation period, stating: “The presidential and parliamentary elections were competitive, well-organized, and featured a largely peaceful and inclusive campaign. Fundamental civil and political rights—including freedom of expression, association, assembly, and the right to vote—were upheld, in line with regional and international standards.”

He applauded the efforts of the Electoral Commission, government institutions, and Ghanaian citizens for maintaining democratic norms despite some operational challenges.

“The transparency and openness displayed by the Electoral Commission were crucial to the success of the 2024 elections,” he remarked.

Ambassador Razaaly also emphasized Ghana’s positive influence across the continent, noting that its democratic practices serve as a model for other African nations.

“In our engagements with African stakeholders, Ghana has stood out for the freedom its citizens enjoy in expressing their views—a hallmark of healthy democracy,” he added.

He recounted conversations with everyday Ghanaians in places like Makola Market, Korle-Bu, and Chorkor, observing that while some expressed frustrations, there was a strong, shared commitment to protecting democratic values.

The EU also recognized improvements since the 2020 elections, including a more active role by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and legal reforms promoting women’s political inclusion.

However, the report identified areas needing attention, such as:

• Strengthening identity verification for new voters
• Reviewing the guarantor system
• Regulating campaign financing and the use of state resources
• Combating misinformation and disinformation
• Enhancing ballot reconciliation and ensuring timely, accurate results collation at all levels

In response, EC Chair Jean Mensa welcomed the EU’s findings and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to continuous improvement.

“We appreciate both the technical insights and broader recommendations. They reflect the realities we observed and offer a path toward better service to the Ghanaian people,” she said.

Mensa also highlighted the importance of voter education and stakeholder engagement in fostering transparency and called for a national conversation around campaign finance reform and stronger electoral governance. She expressed gratitude for the EU’s partnership and looked forward to deeper collaboration ahead of the 2028 elections.