The Dean of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) Law School, Prof Ernest Kofi Abotsi, has recommended that the Electoral Commission (EC) accept the call to audit the voter register ahead of the 2024 general elections.

He emphasised that an audit would be in the EC's best interest, as it would help clarify any concerns or allegations of a bloated voter roll raised by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and other stakeholders.

According to Professor Abotsi, such a move would enhance the Commission's credibility and demonstrate its commitment to transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

The EC’s position on the request for an audit of the register is baffling & even troubling! For even if they deny the merit of the claims, audits by their nature confirm or refute allegations, and for a constitutional body whose mandate is rooted in perceptions of fairness and…

— Prof. E. Kofi Abotsi (@ProfAbotsi) September 14, 2024

In a post on X, he further stated that the EC should welcome these calls for an audit, as they serve to strengthen the institution's integrity and public confidence in the election system.

“The EC’s position on the request for an audit of the register is baffling & even troubling! For even if they deny the merit of the claims, audits by their nature confirm or refute allegations, and for a constitutional body whose mandate is rooted in perceptions of fairness and neutrality, it is in its own interest and that of Ghana that it dispels, not fight, allegations of a bloated register through an audit.”

The Electoral Commission has rejected the National Democratic Congress (NDC) request for an independent forensic audit of the provisional voter register.

This decision was made after a private meeting between the EC and the opposition, during which the NDC raised concerns about alleged inconsistencies in the voter list.

Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the NDC’s Director of Elections, expressed disappointment, arguing that a forensic audit is crucial to rebuilding trust in the electoral process.

The NDC has highlighted concerns over alleged illegal transfers within the provisional register, warning that these could compromise the fairness of the 2024 elections.

In response, the party is planning a nationwide demonstration to press the EC for greater transparency and to involve independent auditors in reviewing the voter roll.