As Ghana gears up for its December 7 general elections, the Electoral Commission (EC) has made a notable adjustment in the preparation of election materials. Samuel Tettey, the Deputy Chairman of the EC in Charge of Operations, announced in an official letter that Yarsarko Printing Press Ltd would no longer handle the printing of presidential and parliamentary ballots for the Oti and Western North regions. Instead, Buck Press Ltd has been designated to produce ballots for the Oti Region, while Acts Commercials Ltd will manage the printing for the Western North Region.
The reasons behind the EC’s decision to end Yarsarko Printing Press Ltd’s involvement remain unspecified, leaving room for speculation. However, given that ballot printing is a critical, security-sensitive process, the EC’s transparency and firm commitment to election integrity are paramount in light of heightened scrutiny from various political groups, especially the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The NDC had previously raised concerns regarding the capacity and reliability of Yarsarko Printing Press Ltd, urging the EC to exercise careful oversight and ensure the security of election materials. Amid these concerns, the decision to change printing companies signals a response to the demands for rigorous standards in the electoral process. The EC, led by Chairperson Jean Mensa, is under pressure to maintain a transparent and fair election amid Ghana’s increasingly competitive political landscape.
A recent press release on October 25, 2024, confirmed the new arrangements. Samuel Tettey emphasized the EC’s commitment to upholding strict standards, stating that both Buck Press Ltd and Acts Commercials Ltd would be held accountable to the same stringent quality and security protocols. Tettey’s statement reassured stakeholders of the Commission’s dedication to an impartial and transparent electoral process, even as they faced rising scrutiny.
To further reinforce transparency, the EC began printing notices of poll and ballot papers on October 11, 2024, a process closely monitored by political parties, civil society organizations, and observers. The EC’s proactive measures reflect its responsiveness to the NDC’s calls for increased oversight and its broader commitment to protecting the electoral process from potential interference.
The latest developments underscore the EC’s role as a central player in ensuring that every phase of the election, particularly ballot production, remains impartial and meticulously managed. Ballot printing is a sensitive phase in any election, as it holds significant implications for the integrity of the entire process. Consequently, the EC’s decision to reassign printing responsibilities serves as a crucial step in addressing public concerns, especially as Ghana prepares for what many predict to be a tightly contested election.
As the election date draws near, the Electoral Commission’s responsiveness to transparency demands is likely to be scrutinized further, both by political parties and by the Ghanaian public. The Commission’s recent actions show its commitment to an orderly and credible election, but whether these efforts will fully assuage public and political concerns remains to be seen.