The Electoral Commission (EC) has dispelled rumors of alleged theft of Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) following the 2023 District Level Elections.

According to the EC, there has not been any theft of BVDs from the Commission’s stores, stating that the only items stolen are five laptops which are separate from the BVDs.

In a press statement on Friday, March 22, the EC clarified that the stolen laptops do not possess the capability to affect the integrity or outcome of elections.

The EC clarified that a memo which is widely circulating on social media about the alleged theft of the commission's BVDs has been misconstrued.

The statement clarified that the memo in question was a “routine communication aimed at ensuring the accountability and returning of all electoral equipment including BVDs to the Commission’s custody.” 

It further stated that the procedure underscores the EC’s rigorous asset management system designed to maintain a transparent and accountable inventory of all the Commission’s assets.

“This commission places high value on all its assets,” the statement said.

The EC noted that it remains dedicated to its mission of delivering transparent, free and fair elections.

“We continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity in our operations and are committed to protecting the sanctity of the electoral process.”

Also read: EC demands un-returned BVDs used for District Level Elections from Regional Directors

Meanwhile, the EC has instructed its Regional Directors to promptly return certain Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) used during the 2023 District Level Elections without any delays.

According to a memorandum dated Thursday, March 7, signed by the Deputy Commissioner, Samuel Tettey, the BVDs should be returned to the Procurement Inventory and Management Unit at the Head Office.