The Electoral Commission (EC) has issued a statement reassuring the public that the recent data entry errors detected in the ongoing limited voter registration exercise are not a cause for alarm. According to the Commission, such errors are not unusual and can be corrected during the voters’ exhibition exercise, which is scheduled to take place from Monday, July 15 to Wednesday, July 24, 2024.
The EC’s statement, signed by Michael Boadu, Acting Director of Public Affairs, addressed a specific issue that had been circulating on social media, where a new voter ID card showed a discrepancy in the bearer’s registration details. The card indicated that the bearer had registered in Kasoa in the Central Region, but listed their district as Ayawaso North in the Greater Accra Region. The Commission’s investigation revealed that the error was caused by a data entry clerk.
The EC emphasized that such errors are not uncommon and are precisely why the law provides for voters to review and correct their registration details during the exhibition exercise. During this period, voters will have the opportunity to verify their details and make any necessary corrections.
The Commission urged the public to remain confident in its ability to carry out its mandate, saying, “We entreat citizens to remain steadfast and repose their confidence and trust in the Commission to deliver on its mandate.”
In a related development, the EC announced that it has paid almost all temporary officials who worked during the District Level Elections in December 2023. A total of 116,211 temporary staff have received payments amounting to GH¢69,164,842.11, with only 47 officials yet to receive their payments of GH¢24,263.16.
The Commission is also modernizing its recruitment process for temporary employees by digitizing its data collection systems. This initiative aims to enhance and improve payment methods, prevent delays, and streamline administrative procedures. The digital system will ensure the accuracy and security of data, optimize operational efficiency, and improve resource management within the Commission.
With this modernization, current and future temporary staff of the EC can expect timely payments, and the Commission is committed to delivering on its mandate to ensure the integrity of Ghana’s electoral process.
