The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has called on the police to take stringent action against individuals who commit electoral offences during the upcoming 2024 General Elections.
Speaking at the launch of Channel One TV's Election 2024 coverage at its Tesano Office in Accra on Tuesday, September 10, National Coordinator of CODEO, Albert Arhin emphasised the need for accountability and strict enforcement of electoral laws to ensure a free, fair, and credible election process.
Mr Arhin highlighted the detrimental impact of electoral offences on the democratic process and urged the EC to punish offenders to serve as a deterrent to others. "Impunity is so much that is why wrongdoing is still ongoing…When people are apprehended, they should be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others," he stated.
Bernard Avle, General Manager of Citi FM and Channel One TV, also called on the Electoral Commission (EC) and the Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) to make the media a key partner in the processes leading up to the 2024 General Elections.
Mr Avle emphasised the crucial role that the media plays in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections.
He highlighted that the media serves as a bridge between the electoral bodies and the public, providing timely and accurate information that helps to build trust and confidence in the electoral process.
He suggested that the EC and CODEO establish special situation rooms in every region, which would have all journalists present on election day to ensure uniformity and accuracy in reportage. "The EC could have a system where there is a place like a situation room in regions for media houses for uniformity." "…The media should be seen as an integral part of the process.
I really want to urge the EC and CODEO to make the media a key partner," he stated.