The European Union (EU) Election Expert Mission has applauded Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC) for its professional and transparent conduct of the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections but also called for critical reforms to strengthen future electoral processes.
Presenting the Mission’s final report to EC Chairperson Jean Adukwei Mensa in Accra, EU Ambassador Irchad Ramiandrasoa Razaaly described the 2024 elections as “competitive, peaceful, and inclusive,” and praised Ghana for fulfilling most international standards for democratic elections.
However, the EU’s recommendations point to gaps in voter identity verification, the need for stricter campaign finance regulations, and efforts to curb electoral misinformation.
“The EC should further improve procedures on ballot reconciliation and strengthen the collation of results at all levels,” Ambassador Razaaly said.
“We also recommend a review of the guarantor system and better oversight of how public funds are used during campaigns.”
The report also highlighted progress since the EU’s 2020 recommendations, especially in civic education and inclusivity, noting the absence of legal barriers for women’s political participation and enhanced public engagement by the EC.
Ambassador Razaaly commended the EC’s transparency and openness, citing it as a key driver of trust in the electoral process.
“We visited markets, hospitals, and coastal communities—people had grievances, but one thing was clear: Ghanaians want to preserve their democracy,” he remarked.
In her response, Mrs. Mensa welcomed the report’s findings and pledged to use both its praises and criticisms to guide improvements.
“We acknowledge that the report reflects the true picture of our elections, and we are committed to building on the strengths and addressing the gaps,” she said.
She also echoed the EU’s call for campaign finance legislation and more robust public education, adding that a national dialogue was necessary to strengthen electoral integrity.
“This report is not just for the EC. It belongs to all Ghanaians, and we must work together to shape a stronger democratic future,” Mrs. Mensa added.
The Electoral Commission expressed optimism for deeper collaboration with the EU in future elections, including the 2028 polls.
The EU Mission’s call for reform underscores the need for Ghana to consolidate its democratic gains while addressing emerging vulnerabilities in electoral governance.
