The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Adukwei Mensa, has stated that the Electoral Commission (EC) is not responsible for security during elections.
According to her, the EC’s role is limited to election-related activities.
She emphasised that regarding the security and safety of voters and property, the EC collaborates with the National Election Security Task Force, led by the Inspector General of Police, to ensure the security of all citizens at election centres nationwide.
Briefing Parliament ahead of the 2024 election, Madam Mensa said, “We have often heard that the Electoral Commission is responsible for security, but we want to emphasise that this is the mandate of the security agencies.
“It is important to note that while we are involved with the Election Security Task Force at the national, regional, and district levels, the Electoral Commission is not responsible for security.
“Our role is to collaborate with them by providing details of all our centres and our printing arrangements, enabling them to work with us and protect the ballots, especially during transportation to the regions.”
“She added, “Beyond this, honourable members, the police are co-responsible for security before, during, and after elections, and they make all security decisions independently of the Electoral Commission.”
Credit: Mavis Sekyibea Addo
