Gender Election Watch Observes Progress and Challenges on Election Day

Dr. Rose Mensah-Kutin, Executive Director of Abantu for Development, led the Gender Election Watch Situation Room in monitoring the 2024 election process with a strong emphasis on gender equality, social inclusion, and accessibility for marginalized groups. Over 100 observers were deployed nationwide, collecting data to ensure the election was fair and inclusive.

Positive Developments

Reports from observers indicated that the election process was largely timely and orderly. Most polling stations opened as scheduled, and security personnel displayed professionalism and vigilance. Regular updates from the Ghana Police Service and the Electoral Commission helped maintain transparency and stakeholder confidence in the process.

Accessibility and Inclusion Challenges

Despite these positive developments, significant challenges concerning accessibility for persons with disabilities (PWDs) were reported. At the Freeman Hotel polling station in La Soco constituency, a concrete pavement obstructed access to a polling tent, forcing election officials to bring the voting process to PWDs. This workaround delayed voting and highlighted the need for improved infrastructure to meet the standards set by the Disability Act.

In Ayawaso West constituency, visually impaired voters faced difficulties accessing tactile ballot papers at some polling stations. Without these provisions, many had to rely on assistance from others, compromising their right to secret voting.

Issues Faced by Women Voters

Women voters encountered a range of challenges. At certain polling stations, party agents were observed attempting to influence women’s votes, perpetuating stereotypes about women’s political awareness. In some regions, particularly Western North, verification issues led to women leaving polling stations in frustration after being unable to find their names in the voter register.

“Women’s participation in elections is critical to democracy. Targeting and intimidation tactics discourage women from exercising their right to vote and must be addressed,” Dr. Mensah-Kutin stressed.

Incidents and Disruptions

While the election was largely peaceful, isolated incidents disrupted the process. In one constituency, minors under the age of 12 were seen campaigning, a violation of election protocols. At UDS Station, voting was briefly halted due to a misunderstanding among party supporters over the purchase of water for agents.

Recommendations and Way Forward

The Gender Election Watch Situation Room concluded that while the election process was effective in many respects, there is a need for greater efforts to address gaps in accessibility, gender inclusion, and voter privacy. Dr. Mensah-Kutin called for continued improvements to create an election environment that serves all citizens equitably.

“Building an inclusive democracy requires ensuring no group is left behind. Lessons from this election should inform future reforms to create a truly equitable electoral process,” she concluded.

The observations and recommendations from the Gender Election Watch Situation Room are expected to guide stakeholders in refining Ghana’s electoral processes for greater inclusivity and fairness in the future.

By Evelyn Naadu Borquaye || ghananewsonline.com.gh