EC's conduct breeding perception that they have an agenda - Analyst explains

Justice Siaw Mandela, a political expert, has questioned why Electoral Commissioner Jean Mensa and her deputies continue to make minor mistakes in organizing registration procedures across the country.

He argued that, given her experience in observing and monitoring elections prior to her appointment, Mensa should have excelled in her role.

He criticized the current Electoral Commission (EC) for its ineffective organization of registration exercises.

Despite aired concerns and submitted proposals, he noted that the EC has shown no commitment to improving its operations.

Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he expressed that it is illogical for the EC to limit its registration exercise to a few centers amidst a growing population.

"Overcrowding at registration centers inevitably leads to problems," he explained.

"If not for the concerns raised by individuals and CSOs, the EC would have confined the limited registration exercise to their district offices," he stated.

"Is Mrs. Mensa unaware of the difficult-to-reach registration centers? Must people complain and demand more centers before they are expanded? This is why there are accusations of the EC having an agenda.

"The small number of registration centers will cause challenges. It is sensible to increase the number of centers to alleviate overcrowding."

He also linked the facilitation of minors registering to the insufficient number of centers.

"If the EC had expanded the registration centers, allowing people to register closer to their locations, it would have helped curb the registration of minors," he added.

Mandela further commented that Mensa and her deputies, including Dr. Bossman Asare, act as if they were alien to the country's electoral processes.

He stressed the need for the EC to augment the number of registration centers to reduce pressure and overcrowding.

He criticized the limited registration approach as ineffective, potentially disenfranchising eligible voters for the December 7, 2024, elections.

However, he urged those participating in the registration to remain patient and allow the process to unfold despite the challenges.