CODEO Observes 2024 Elections using Parallel Vote Tabulation Methodology

The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting credible and transparent elections in Ghana through the Parallel Vote Tabulation (PVT) methodology.

Speaking to the nation, Rev. Fred Deegbe, Co-Chair of CODEO’s Advisory Board, emphasized that the deployment of 4,000 trained, accredited, and non-partisan observers across the country reflects CODEO’s dedication to transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

Polling Station Opening and Setup

By 10:30 AM on Election Day, CODEO had received comprehensive reports from 99% of its PVT observers stationed across all 276 constituencies in Ghana’s 16 regions. Rev. Deegbe highlighted key findings about polling station operations:

• Arrival of Election Officials:
  Election officials were present at 85% of polling stations by 6:00 AM. However, delays occurred in 12% of stations due to absentee officials, and 3% of observers themselves arrived late.
• Polling Station Opening Times:
  • 66% opened by 7:15 AM.
  • 31% between 7:16 and 8:00 AM.
  • 4% opened between 8:01 and 10:00 AM.
  • 1% after 10:00 AM.Regions such as Northern, Oti, North East, Greater Accra, and Eastern experienced more significant delays.

Polling Station Setup and Accessibility

While most polling stations were adequately set up, disparities were noted:

• Election Officials: 90% had the minimum five officials present, but 10% had fewer.
• Secrecy in Voting: 98% ensured voters’ privacy, while 2% fell short.
• Gender Representation: Women presided at 14% of polling stations, and 63% had two or three women among their officials. However, 6% had no female representation.
• Accessibility: 6% of polling stations were inaccessible to persons with disabilities and older voters, a concern CODEO urged authorities to address.

Electoral Materials and Security

Observers reported that all polling stations received essential materials, such as ballot papers, indelible ink, and biometric devices. However, 26% of stations had only one biometric device instead of the recommended two. Security personnel were present at 98% of polling stations, though 78% of these officers were unarmed.

Challenges and Incidents

Despite generally smooth voting, observers documented several challenges:

• Delays and Procedural Issues: In Ahafo, faulty validating stamps caused over an hour of delay, while late ballot deliveries in Volta delayed voting until after 10:00 AM.
• Voter Influence and Misconduct: In Nabdam (Upper East), party agents allegedly influenced voters, sparking tensions and fights.
• Technology Malfunctions: Faulty verification devices in Greater Accra caused delays, necessitating manual verification.

A Call for Calm

Rev. Deegbe commended the Electoral Commission for resolving most challenges swiftly, ensuring the voting process proceeded as expected. He urged Ghanaians to remain calm and confident in exercising their democratic rights. “Together, we can uphold the integrity of our elections,” he concluded.

CODEO’s findings reflect the organization’s critical role in monitoring elections and ensuring the credibility of Ghana’s democratic process.

By Evelyn Naadu Borquaye || ghananewsonline.com.gh