BudgIT Ghana Lauds Peaceful Elections, Calls for Electoral Reforms and Improved Voter Participation

BudgIT Ghana Lauds Peaceful Elections, Calls for Electoral Reforms and Improved Voter Participation

BudgIT Ghana, a civic-tech organization focused on transparency, has commended the peaceful conduct of Ghana’s 2024 general elections while urging stakeholders to address lingering challenges.

Partnering with the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG Ghana), BudgIT undertook a nationwide observation exercise as part of its Roadmap to Elections 2024 initiative.

The effort aimed to enhance transparency, accountability, and credibility in the electoral process through real-time monitoring and reporting.

Recognition for Civil Society Contributions

BudgIT Ghana acknowledged the critical role played by civil society organizations (CSOs), including the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) and the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana). Their commitment to voter education and empowerment was instrumental in strengthening democratic processes.

“These collaborative efforts highlight the pivotal role CSOs play in fostering transparency, civic engagement, and trust in governance,” BudgIT Ghana stated.

Reduced Incidences of Violence

The 2024 elections recorded fewer cases of electoral violence, voter intimidation, and ballot tampering compared to previous years.

However, isolated incidents, including tragic deaths in Nyankpala (Tolon Constituency, Northern Region) and Kasoa (Awutu Senya East Constituency, Central Region), marred an otherwise calm electoral process.

Despite the relative calm, BudgIT Ghana expressed concern over low voter turnout, describing it as a sign of growing apathy that needs urgent attention to deepen public participation in Ghana’s democratic journey.

Call for Electoral Reforms

BudgIT Ghana urged stakeholders, particularly the government, to address systemic issues that undermine public trust in the electoral process. Key recommendations included:

• Prompt investigations into reported incidents of violence and misconduct to ensure justice.
• Electoral reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and reducing opportunities for fraud.
• Strengthened civic education initiatives to promote informed voting and active citizen engagement.

Strengthening Ghana’s Democracy

While celebrating the progress made in the 2024 elections, BudgIT Ghana called for sustained efforts to make future elections safer, more inclusive, and engaging.

“As a nation, we must build on these successes, strengthen our institutions, and reaffirm our dedication to a democracy that reflects the will and aspirations of all Ghanaians,” the organization emphasized.

BudgIT Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to fostering transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance, envisioning a democratic process that inspires confidence and broad participation in every election cycle.