As Ghana approaches its 2024 general elections, securing the integrity of its electoral process remains crucial, particularly in areas experiencing political and ethnic tensions. One such region, Bawku in the Upper East Region has seen recurring violence due to renewed chieftaincy dispute. These conflicts, which recently escalated, present unique security challenges that could potentially disrupt the upcoming election process with emerging fears of spread to similar at-risk constituencies,
This article examines Ghana’s use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in elections and proposes a targeted implementation of electronic voting (E-voting) in Bawku to enhance security, accessibility, and transparency, safeguarding the electoral rights of citizens in conflict-prone areas.
The Role of ICT in Elections
Globally, ICT has become integral to modern electoral processes, offering solutions for efficiency, inclusivity, and security. Countries such as Estonia, India, and Namibia have adopted various forms of E-voting, transforming how voters interact with democratic processes. For Ghana, where ICT integration can be track from the introduction of the Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) in 1995; Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) in 2012 and continued with digital advancements like the attempted Electronic Results Transmission System (ERTS) and mobile-based voter verification for the 2024 exhibition and liveness features, the potential for digital transformation is clear. With each technological step, the Electoral Commission (EC) has worked to improve data accuracy, curb electoral fraud, and expedite vote processing, underscoring the promise of E-voting.
In Ghana, where certain regions face security challenges, E-voting has the potential to address voter safety concerns directly. Introducing E-voting options, can alleviate risks associated with violence, thereby supporting democratic inclusivity even in areas affected by conflict.
The Case for E-Voting in Bawku
Bawku’s recent history of violent incidents highlights the urgent need for secure voting alternatives. The region’s chieftaincy conflict, marked by frequent clashes, has intensified in the lead-up to the election day. With a strict curfew in place and volatile conditions potentially deterring voters from physically accessing polling stations, E-voting could be an effective strategy to safeguard voter participation while reducing the risk of election-day violence. Especially considering that elections in Ghana are not free from violence.
Advantages of E-Voting in Conflict Zones
Implementing E-voting in a conflict zone like Bawku offers several benefits:
- Improved Security: By enabling citizens to vote remotely, E-voting reduces crowding at polling centers, mitigating the risk of violence and easing the demand on security forces.
- Enhanced Accessibility: Conflict and curfews often deter voters from participating in elections. E-voting could enable residents to exercise their voting rights from home or another safe location.
- Increased Transparency and Trust: Electronic voting systems with secure protocols can reduce the opportunity for vote tampering, ensuring transparency and public confidence in the results.
- Efficiency and Timeliness: Electronic votes can be processed faster, reducing delays in vote counting and results declaration critical for maintaining calm in regions with heightened tension.
E-Voting Implementation Model for Bawku
E-voting systems vary in complexity, from in-person electronic voting machines to online systems allowing voters to cast their ballots remotely. For a pilot in Bawku, the EC could consider Internet Voting Systems that allows voters use any internet-enabled device to participate in the December 7 Elections.
While E-voting provides a promising solution, implementing such technology in an election requires addressing potential issues like cybersecurity, vote secrecy, and compliance with existing election laws. Investment in robust cybersecurity measures, voter education, and transparent reporting mechanisms would be essential to ensure the integrity of the process and public trust.
A Path Forward
The use of ICT in Ghana’s elections has already proven beneficial, enabling a more efficient, transparent, and secure voting process. Given the unique security challenges posed by conflict-prone areas like Bawku, introducing E-voting could be a strategic approach to safeguard electoral integrity and foster democratic engagement. By piloting E-voting systems, Ghana can empower its citizens of Bawku to participate in the upcoming elections, regardless of security risks, and set a precedent for conflict-sensitive electoral solutions in Africa.
As the country prepares for its 2024 elections, the adoption of E-voting in Bawku could become a landmark decision that redefines Ghana’s commitment to democracy, even under challenging circumstances.
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