Ghanaians must demand a forensic audit of the voter’s register to safeguard electoral integrity

Ghana, our beloved nation, stands on the edge of a political crisis that threatens the very foundation of its democracy. The alarming concentration of power in the hands of political parties, especially when it comes to the control of the electoral process, is a ticking time bomb.

If we allow any political party to dominate the mechanics of our elections, the outcome of elections will no longer reflect the will of the people, but rather the desires of those in power.

A government can perform poorly, engage in corrupt practices, and wreak havoc on the nation, yet still manage to win an election if it controls the electoral machinery. This is a dangerous path that could lead to political instability and the destruction of our democracy.

One of the most critical aspects of a free and fair election is the credibility of the voter’s register. Unfortunately, concerns over its integrity have been growing, raising questions about the fairness of upcoming elections. As citizens, we cannot afford to remain passive in the face of these concerns. It is time for Ghanaians to demand a forensic audit of the voter’s register. A thorough and transparent audit will not only help ensure that the register is credible but will also restore public trust in the electoral process.

The consequences of failing to act now could be disastrous. Imagine a scenario where the election results are determined not by the people’s votes but by a manipulated voter’s register. In such a situation, governance becomes a farce, with leaders who may have no interest in the nation’s development, or worse, those who prioritize their own selfish interests over the well-being of the country.

Corruption will flourish unchecked, illegal mining will continue to destroy our water bodies, and youth will be left behind, deprived of opportunities and a promising future.

It is important to recognize that the issue of the voters’ register is not just about elections—it is about the peace and stability of the country. Ghana has enjoyed relative peace and stability in the past, but if the integrity of the electoral process is compromised, it could lead to heightened tensions and conflict.

Ghanaians must therefore rise above party politics and unite to safeguard the sanctity of our elections. The forensic audit of the voters’ register is a critical first step in ensuring that future elections are free, fair, and transparent.

Our constitution guarantees every citizen the right to participate in free and fair elections. Allowing any political party to manipulate the system undermines this fundamental right and poses a direct threat to our democracy. Ghanaians must show concern and make their voices heard before it is too late. Every citizen has a role to play in ensuring the credibility of the voter’s register by demanding transparency and accountability from the authorities.

In conclusion, the peace and future of Ghana depend on the integrity of our electoral process. As citizens, it is our duty to demand a forensic audit of the voter’s register to ensure that it reflects the true will of the people. Let us not wait for a crisis to erupt before we act. The time to safeguard our democracy is now.

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The Author, Dr Ernest Kwaku Sarpong is a Medical Doctor and Researcher.