The African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns, Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, has stressed the importance of transparency in electoral processes and the need for measured security deployments during elections.

In an interview with Joy News on Saturday, December 7, he said ensuring openness and professionalism at all levels fosters trust and acceptance of election outcomes, reducing the likelihood of violence.

Dr Chambas noted, “The evidence, not only in Ghana but around Africa and the world, is that when these processes are open and transparent, the acceptance of the result is very high.

"First of all, the probability of violence is low because everybody can see clearly.”

He explained that transparency in counting, transmitting results, and election-day logistics is critical to credibility and public trust.

Reflecting on the role of security agencies during elections, Dr Chambas highlighted the delicate balance between maintaining order and avoiding intimidation.

“The military should deploy in a manner that is not intrusive in the electoral process itself,” he stated.

The former Bimbilla MP added that while the police and other security agencies are primarily responsible for securing elections, the military may step in under exceptional circumstances, but always in a measured way.

Drawing lessons from Ghana’s past, he expressed optimism about the professionalism of security agencies.

“The leadership of the military is very cautious about this,” he remarked, referencing assurances from the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service about their commitment to non-intrusive roles.

However, he stressed individual accountability, stating, “If they go and behave in a manner contrary to the orders that have been given by their hierarchy, they will be held individually accountable.”

Dr. Chambas also acknowledged the pressures of the post-voting phase, particularly during the counting and transmission of results.

“The focus is now shifting from Election Day itself to the counting process, collating the numbers, and transmitting those numbers,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of party agents and observers ensuring that this phase is transparent, stating, “When these systems are observed by party agents in the first instance and then by all the deployed local and international agencies, you create a system with a very high probability of acceptance.”

In a call for unity and professionalism, he concluded by encouraging stakeholders, including security agencies and electoral officials, to draw on their training and past experiences to ensure a smooth process.

“Everyone is determined not to repeat that bad experience,” he said, referencing Ghana’s 2020 elections, which were marred by incidents of violence and loss of lives.

Dr. Chambas’ message resonates beyond Ghana, offering insights into how transparency, accountability, and professionalism in electoral processes can bolster democracy and peace across Africa.