The Electoral Commission has said it will provide rechargeable lamps to all polling stations across the country ahead of the upcoming general elections.
According to Deputy Chair at the Commission in charge of Corporate Services, Dr Eric Bossman Asare, the move is expected to address the challenges that might be associated with counting of election results in the evenings.
“For the voting, we will not require so much electricity to charge the kits that are being used. We, however, recognize the use of electricity when it is time for counting, and the EC will provide all polling stations with rechargeable lamps.”
“In terms of the number of lamps, we will cover all polling stations, especially where electricity will be a challenge. We have budgeted ahead to make sure every part of the country is covered, even if there is no electricity-related problems.” He stated.
He noted that the commission has put the necessary plans in place to ensure that no voter, including those in hard to reach areas would be disenfranchised.
In that regard, Dr. Asare said “Even if it requires going to the communities with a helicopter, by boat or whatever means that will take us to these remote places, and if it means we should be at the place three days before time, we will make provisions for that.”
Touching on steps being taking to address the issue of rejected ballots, he the Ghanaian times that the commission will intensify public education on the voting process to reduce the number of rejected ballots; if not to eliminate it.
He continued that “We are working with Election Security Task Force under the leadership of the Ghana Police Service, to ensure that every polling station have their own intelligence and know the flashpoints that would require much attention.”
The Deputy Commissioner further reiterated the commitment of the Commission to preside over a free, fair, and transparent election.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1MHZ/Ghana
