CODEO urges swift Police action against vote-buying during special voting

The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has raised concerns over violations of electoral laws during the special voting exercise held on Monday, December 2.

In a statement, CODEO highlighted instances of vote-buying and the photographing of cast ballots, noting that these infractions were often overlooked by presiding and security officers.

The Coalition emphasized the urgent need for the Ghana Police Service to take decisive action against those involved in these illegal activities.

“CODEO is alarmed by the observed incidents of vote-buying and the photographing of cast ballots,” the statement read.

“It is concerning that some presiding officers and security officers did nothing to stop the violations. We call on the Ghana Police Service to swiftly address all reported cases, including those highlighted in the media.”

CODEO also urged the Electoral Commission (EC) and the National Election Security Task Force to issue clear directives to presiding officers and security personnel to act decisively against electoral offences during the upcoming December 7 general elections.

The Coalition further appealed to political parties to desist from practices that undermine the integrity of the electoral process, calling on voters to reject inducements and exercise their rights freely.

CODEO commended the Office of the Special Prosecutor for its interest in these matters and urged the Ghana Police Service to update the public on actions taken against the offenders.

The Coalition reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the credibility of Ghana’s electoral process, urging all stakeholders to uphold the rule of law.