The Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr Rashid Tanko-Computer, has criticised the Electoral Commission (EC) for challenges arising during the ballot printing process.

Speaking on Joy News’ News Desk, Dr Tanko-Computer expressed concerns about what he described as failure in the commission’s handling of the electoral process.

He explained that the NDC initially agreed to the procedures for ballot printing but discovered significant errors as the process unfolded. According to him, these errors could undermine the credibility of the EC.

“We have serious challenges with the Electoral Commission regarding the way they are handling these issues,” he said. “Initially, we all agreed to the processes for printing the ballots, but now we are experiencing challenges. This does not speak well for the EC’s credibility.”

Dr Tanko-Computer highlighted a specific issue in the Volta Region caused by errors in statistical data sent by the EC to the printing house. He noted that the mismatch in the numbers were identified at the last minute.

Read also: EC reports ballot paper shortages in 5 constituencies across Volta Region

“In one constituency, the voter register required a total of 642 combined ballot booklets, but the EC sent statistics for 640 instead. This mistake originated from the EC, not the printing house or our agents,” he clarified.

He commended the NDC’s agents for their vigilance in monitoring the process and ensuring errors were flagged. “Our agents did a fantastic job by closely tracking the statistics provided by the EC,” he said.

Dr Tanko-Computer also stated that the NDC remains committed to ensuring transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

“We want to make sure the right things are done. We are monitoring every step of the process because we want to win fairly,” he said

Ahead of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting, he confirmed that the NDC would attend with an open mind to seek clarity on the EC’s actions, especially concerning the upcoming special voting and general elections.

“We will ask relevant questions and ensure the EC provides answers to key issues,” he concluded.