The West Africa Network of Election Observers (WANEO), in collaboration with the Defence Network for Democracy (DEFNED) and other Pan-African civil society organisations, has applauded the Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) for ‘outstanding commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity’ in the ongoing preparations for Ghana's 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.

In a press statement signed by Rev. Kingsley Oheneba Amoah-Asihene, Executive Director of WANEO, the organisation commended the EC’s efforts in fostering stakeholder involvement in the electoral process, specifically in the ‘creation of a credible nationwide voters register’.

WANEO pointed out the EC's role in ensuring that all relevant actors, including political parties, civil society organisations, and the general public, are actively engaged in the democratic process.

WANEO expressed its appreciation for the EC’s administrative innovations, which it said have strengthened public trust in the electoral system.

"The Electoral Commission of Ghana has demonstrated a high sense of transparency and accountability, which has been crucial in deepening stakeholders’ confidence in the democratic process," the statement read.

WANEO also encouraged the EC to continue its laudable efforts in creating a credible electoral environment.

Commitment to Global Democratic Standards                                                                  The statement emphasised the EC's alignment with international democratic frameworks, including the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance (ACDEG), and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs Agenda 2030).

WANEO acknowledged that the EC’s adherence to these frameworks promotes not only democracy but also peace and security in Ghana, especially as the nation approaches its 2024 general elections.

WANEO urged all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, religious bodies, traditional authorities, and media outlets, to positively support the EC in fulfilling its constitutional mandate. The group highlighted the need for collective efforts in securing a credible voters register to ensure a peaceful and inclusive election.

Call to Action for All Stakeholders                                                                                        In its statement, WANEO called on key actors across Ghana’s governance and development sectors—including the Judiciary, Parliament of Ghana, Security Agencies, and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE)—to collaborate with the EC. WANEO believes that all-inclusive support for the EC will help safeguard the integrity of the 2024 general elections and further consolidate Ghana’s democracy.

WANEO reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside the EC and all relevant public and private stakeholders, reiterating its readiness to support efforts to secure a highly inclusive and peaceful election. "Together, we can ensure that Ghana remains a beacon of democracy, peace, and security in Africa," said WANEO.