Establish a Bipartisan Election Results Monitoring Center: A Call for Transparency and Accountability- EC

Ahmed M. Gedel Writes:
Deputy Zongo Caucus Coordinator, USA

As the cornerstone of democracy, elections demand robust safeguards to ensure their integrity. To achieve this, the Inter-Party Advisory Committee(IPAC) must establish a bipartisan Election Results Monitoring Center, distinct from the traditional strong room.

This center will serve as a beacon of transparency, fostering trust among political parties and the electorate.

The Limitations of the Strong Room
The strong room, often shrouded in secrecy, has raised concerns about its potential for manipulation. It is imperative that political parties reject this outdated approach and advocate for a Transparent and Accountable Room (TAR). By doing so, they will demonstrate their commitment to openness and fairness.

Transparent and Accountable Room (TAR): A New Standard
The TAR should be strategically located at the conference center, in close proximity to the national election results collation center at Independence Square. This setup ensures seamless communication and real-time updates. To further enhance transparency:
▪Regional Election Results Display: Post and display regional election results on scoreboards for public viewing, promoting accountability and inclusivity.

▪Real-Time Updates: Utilize digital platforms to provide instantaneous updates, allowing citizens to track the electoral process.

▪Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration: Foster partnerships among election officials, civil society organizations, and law enforcement to ensure a secure and credible process.

By embracing this innovative approach, IPAC can significantly enhance the credibility and integrity of elections, setting a new standard for democratic governance.

Ahmed M. Gedel
Former NDC Technical Advisor on Biometric and NDC Rep@ IPAC & UNDP-Ghana