Political analyst, Mr. Solomon Boateng, has called for significant reforms in Ghana’s electoral processes to reflect the true will of the people and uphold the democratic values of the country.
In his assessment of the aftermath of the December 7 general elections with Kwamina Sam Biney on Adekyee mu Nsem on Bryt 99.1 fm, Mr. Boateng emphasized the election results must accurately represent the wishes of the electorates.
He cautioned that manipulating election outcomes against the people’s choice could have long-term negative impact on the future of voters and the nation at large.
Commenting on the collation of parliamentary election results, Mr. Boateng highlighted the need to localize the process to avoid potential conflicts.
“Parliamentary results are supposed to be settled at either the constituency collation centers or regional centers, not national collation centers”, he asserted.
He stressed the importance of vigilance among politicians during elections but warned that such vigilance should not come at the expense of ordinary Ghanaians.
A Call To Eliminate Electoral Violence
Addressing the issue of violence during and after elections, Mr. Boateng expressed deep concern about its impact on Ghana’s democratic system, indicating that violence during and after elections disgraces the democratic system in Ghana.
He, therefore, urged all stakeholders to work collectively to remove violence from Ghana’s electoral processes, emphasizing that maturity and civility must characterize Ghana’s elections.
He further appealed to the Electoral Commission (EC) to remain impartial and transparent in its dealings to avoid electoral conflicts as the current credibility of the Electoral Commission is questionable.
He attributed some instances of electoral violence to the conduct of EC officials and party agents from both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Recommendations for Electoral Reforms
Mr. Boateng suggested that the EC adopt strict measures in appointing its officials to prevent future conflicts.
According to him, some EC officers and party agents are the reason behind the violence during and after elections and urged the Commission to be meticulous in its recruitment process.
He also called for systemic improvements in Ghana’s electoral framework to enhance efficiency and build public trust.
Unity in the Eighth Parliament
Turning his focus to parliamentary affairs, Mr. Boateng urged the NDC and NPP caucuses in the eighth parliament to collaborate for the sake of national progress, by emphasizing that peace and cooperation during the parliamentary transition are crucial for ensuring the smooth functioning of government business.
Mr. Boateng’s submission underscores the critical need for reforms, unity, and peace in Ghana’s electoral and parliamentary processes, which are vital for safeguarding the country’s democratic integrity.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Gumedzo Isaac Acheampong
