EC's move to improve credibility of voters register commendable but needs to scrutinise IT systems - Analyst
Dr Jonathan Asante Ochere, a senior lecturer and political analyst at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) says the move by the Electoral Commission (EC) to improve the credibility of the voters’ register was commendable.
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Speaking in an interview on TV3 on Wednesday [October 3, 2024], Dr Ochere however said while the register has improved, a further review of the IT system is needed to prevent any possible manipulation.
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At an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday, political parties discussed concerns about the credibility of the voter registers.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) specifically called for a more thorough audit of the EC’s IT infrastructure to address any vulnerabilities that could affect the credibility of future elections.
In this regard, Dr Ochere noted that the EC’s efforts to refine the voters’ register have boosted its credibility.
“The EC has done a good job, and its credibility has increased,” he said.
However, he stressed that the root causes of vulnerabilities, particularly within the IT system, must be addressed.
“The IT system is the backbone of the electoral process. Any weaknesses must be identified and fixed to ensure no party can manipulate the system to its advantage,” he stated.
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He suggested that giving all political parties access to review the IT system would increase transparency and boost public confidence in the election results.
While acknowledging the improvements in the voters’ register, Dr Ochere insisted that more must be done to protect the electoral process from manipulation.
“The NDC’s call for greater scrutiny of the IT system makes sense - it would help strengthen trust in the system,” he added.
During the IPAC meeting, Akua Donkor’s party defended the EC, with some members praising Chairperson Jean Mensa’s handling of the electoral process.
Dr Ochere, however, noted that this support should not overshadow legitimate calls for transparency.
“Although the EC has made progress, transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining trust in the electoral system,” he said.
Dr Ochere also highlighted that the EC has yet to provide political parties with the updated voters’ register, making it difficult for them to thoroughly review the changes.
He stressed that until all parties can fully examine the register and IT systems, doubts will remain.
“The EC has done well improving the register, but more is needed to ensure the IT system is secure and transparent. A forensic audit, as some have suggested, could reassure the public that no one can manipulate the system for an unfair advantage,” Dr Ochere concluded.
The call for an audit comes amid broader discussions about electoral reforms and the need for a robust system that can withstand scrutiny from all political stakeholders.