Former Director of CARE Ghana, David Kumi, has launched a scathing critique of Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC), accusing the body of dismissive behavior and failing to heed public concerns.
According to a report by Ghana Web on Saturday, December 28, 2024, Kumi’s comments came after a recent EC statement that the practice of re-collation during elections is not new, a position Kumi described as contradictory.
Kumi expressed frustration over what he perceived as the EC’s arrogant posture, asserting that the Commission behaves as though it is infallible. He argued that this approach undermines public trust and disrespects the intelligence of Ghanaians.
The former CARE Ghana director particularly took issue with what he described as inconsistencies in the EC’s policies and public statements.
According to Kumi, the EC had previously declared that Ghana no longer practices re-declaration or re-collation of election results, advising candidates who feel aggrieved to seek legal redress.
However, the latest pronouncement from the Commission appears to contradict that position. He also seemingly suggested that there is no sense in any of the actions made under the EC chairperson, Jean Mensa.
He said, “Whatever the EC is saying doesn’t make sense because you were the same person who said the country no longer practices re-declaration and re-collation. Thus, any candidate who feels cheated should go to court. And you come back to say and do otherwise, then there is no sense in any of her actions.”
Kumi also called on the EC to adopt a more transparent and accountable approach in its dealings with the public. He urged the Commission to recognize the intelligence of Ghanaians and to communicate policies in a manner that respects their concerns.
“You have done something, and it has gone wayward. Instead of you telling us something we are willing to hear and taking needed actions, you are doing what will please you. What are you trying to tell Ghanaians?” Kumi questioned.
He emphasized the need for the EC to act in a way that fosters public confidence, particularly in a democratic system where the credibility of the electoral process is paramount.
Kumi also raised broader concerns about the independence granted to the EC under Ghana’s constitution. While acknowledging the importance of an independent electoral body, he argued that this autonomy has led to what he described as misbehavior by the Commission.
He also pointed to the controversy surrounding the use of the Ghana Card as the sole identification document for voter registration as a case in point.
“Whatever we say or suggest, they either take it or leave it, whether good or bad. We advised that lots of people are yet to receive their Ghana Cards, so the idea of it being the only means to vote should not be considered, but the EC chose to once again do what it pleases,” he added.