The Electoral Commission (EC) has contracted collation officials to assist in compiling election results in the upcoming polls.

The process, which was abandoned after its adoption in 2016, has been reinstated to enhance the transparency and credibility of the election.

Speaking to Luv FM, the Commission’s Director in Ashanti Region, Francis Osei Nsiah, said persons with expertise in modern technology and data collation were recruited for this role.

According to him, “In 2016, we used collation officers, but we didn’t continue in 2020. This time, we’re bringing them back. We want individuals with the skills to handle complex data accurately, combining letters and numbers to give correct results. We’ve hired qualified professionals with expertise in data handling specifically for collation at both regional and constituency levels.”

In previous elections, returning officers have typically managed the collation of results for the Electoral Commission (EC) at the constituency level. While these officers have been effective, the additional responsibilities on Election Day have often posed challenges.

This year, however, the EC is reintroducing specialized collation officers to focus solely on data collation after voting ends, freeing up returning officers to handle other tasks.

The Chairperson of the National Media Commission (NMC), Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo, highlighted the media’s role in preserving national harmony, stating, “We have a responsibility to ensure that, even when emotions run high, we help calm any tensions,” he said.

With the general election barely a month away, the EC is poised to ensure a free and fair process.

As the countdown continues, parties are intensifying their campaigns, and the Electoral Commission is putting measures in place to ensure a smooth and transparent election process.