The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has condemned the violence and disruptions that have marred the collation process following the December 7, 2024, presidential elections.
In a statement released on Monday, December 9, 2024, CODEO expressed concern over incidents that included the burning of the Electoral Commission’s collation center in Damongo, located in the Savannah Region, and the destruction of key electoral materials, such as pink results sheets.
CODEO, representing the Advisory Board and its member organizations, praised the professionalism of security agencies during the voting, counting, and collation processes.
However, the organization noted that, despite a generally peaceful election day, there were reports of violence, intimidation, and harassment after the polls closed.
These incidents have disrupted the collation of both presidential and parliamentary results, hindering the smooth conduct of the electoral process. CODEO strongly condemned the violent takeover of government offices and properties by supporters of political parties.
In its statement, CODEO urged all political parties, particularly the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to take a firm stand against violence and to encourage peaceful engagement.
“Our political leaders must ensure that their members and supporters uphold democratic principles and resolve disputes through lawful and peaceful means,” the statement read.
CODEO also called on the police to enforce the law and appealed to the Electoral Commission and all election stakeholders to reflect on the lessons of the 2024 elections to improve future electoral processes, particularly in areas like voter education and election administration logistics.
