The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the replacement of missing voter ID cards has commenced today, May 30, and will run through to Friday, June 14, 2024.

This service is specifically for individuals who have lost their voter ID cards, including victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.

The aim is to ensure that these individuals can participate in the pending general elections on December 7.

While those replacing their missing voter ID cards will be required to pay GH¢10, victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage will receive their replacements free of charge.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 28, the EC instructed voters wishing to replace their missing ID cards to make a payment using the shortcode *222*1067#.

“The cost for replacement is GH¢10 only,” the statement read.

Applicants are then required to provide the reference code received after payment to their district officer to facilitate the replacement process.

In a press release issued on May 17, 2024, the EC confirmed its commitment to replacing voter ID cards of victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage, at no cost.

The Commission emphasized its duty to support all eligible voters in exercising their right to vote in the December elections.

“The replacement of voter ID cards, which is scheduled to commence from May 30, 2024, is intended to fulfill that duty,” the statement explained.

Recognizing the hardships and economic loss suffered by the victims, the Commission decided to waive the replacement fee for those affected by the spillage.

Background

In September of last year, the Volta River Authority (VRA) spilled excess water from the Akosombo and Kpong dams.

This action resulted in flooding across many communities in about eight districts within three regions: Asuogyaman, Shai Osudoku, North Tongu, Central Tongu, South Tongu, Anlo, and Ada East districts, as well as the Keta and Ketu South municipalities.

The floods displaced approximately 39,000 people and submerged farmlands and aquaculture cages on the Volta Lake.

The three Tongu districts were the most severely affected, with many residents losing their ID cards in the floods.

The EC’s initiative to replace voter ID cards is a crucial step in ensuring that all eligible voters, including those impacted by this disaster, can participate in the electoral process.



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