The Electoral Commission has brought before the Council of state, the subject of a new voters’ register and the need for it.
Despite stiff opposition and varied concerns raised by other parties in opposition, the Commission appears to be resolute in its compilation of a new register for the upcoming elections.
While the EC’s opposers say the exercise would be a waste of state resources, the election management body insists without a new register and a new biometric election management system, the December 2020 polls would be imperilled.
Justifying the move by her outfit, EC Chair, Jean Mensa, explained how the new system, which she described as ‘robust, user-friendly, cheaper and state of the art’ will help tackle glaring challenges facing the old register.
This she says, will promote the delivery of accountability, credibility and fairness in the upcoming polls and beyond. Jean Mensa believes the good the register will do Ghanaians on the electoral front, far outweighs the negatives.
Information Technology Consultant of the EC, Dr Yaw Ofori Agyei, on his part, enlightened members of the council about the need for acquisition. During an in-depth lecture, he explained that a report by the former vendor stated that the current system had exhausted its lifespan, the reason it is quite risky for any Election Management body to continue patronizing the equipment.
The new voters’ register according to the commission will save the country GHC173,077,650.
The Chairman of the Council of State, Nana Otuo Siriboe II, on his part, lauded the Commission for the comprehensive presentation, noting that the Council recognises the importance of the EC’s independence as stipulated in the constitution and urged its leadership to stay focused in its bid to delivering a credible election.
Meanwhile, the EC has announced that it would start the registration exercise on April 18, 2020.
Jean Mensa is Electoral Commission Chair