GJA elections chair defends proxy voting, commits to transparent June 30 polls

The Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Elections Committee, Peter Martey Agbeko, has defended the use of proxy voting in the upcoming national and regional elections scheduled for Monday, June 30, 2025, while pledging to oversee a credible and transparent electoral process.

In a statement released on Monday, June 23, 2025, Mr Agbeko dismissed allegations of a bloated voter register and criticisms surrounding proxy voting as unfounded and speculative. He maintained that the committee has taken steps to ensure the process remains secure and resistant to abuse.

“Proxy voting is a legitimate and widely accepted feature of democratic electoral systems. What matters most is safeguarding it against abuse—and we have taken stringent steps to do just that,” Mr Agbeko stated.

He further noted that while constructive feedback is welcome, any attempt to derail the process based on suspicion rather than evidence must be discouraged.

“It is unfortunate when people project their own standards onto others and seek to create doubt without presenting verifiable facts,” he said.

Working under the technical guidance of an advisor from the Electoral Commission of Ghana, the Elections Committee has pledged to conduct the polls in line with international best practices. Mr Agbeko stressed the committee’s preparedness and dedication to a professional process.

Reflecting on his previous role in the 2021 GJA elections, Mr Agbeko recalled stepping into leadership just days before the vote following the abrupt resignation of the then-chairman. He cited that experience as evidence of the committee’s resilience and unwavering commitment to the Association’s democratic mandate.

“With just a week to the polls, we note ongoing efforts by certain stakeholders to sow doubt and frustration. Let me be clear: this Chairman is not going anywhere. I intend to see this process through—faithfully, professionally, and to the glory of God and the service of our Association,” he affirmed.

In a bid to foster transparency and build consensus, the Elections Committee, alongside the Electoral Commission’s technical advisor, met with all contesting candidates Monday evening.

The GJA election is considered a significant event on Ghana’s media calendar, shaping leadership that will guide the Association’s vision and advocate for journalists across the country.

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