Prof Gatsi Calls for External Audits to Strengthen Electoral Integrity and Trust in EC
Dean of the University of Cape Coast’s Business School, Professor John Gatsi, has underscored the critical role of public trust in the Electoral Commission (EC), asserting that such trust must be renewed with each election cycle.
Delivering a lecture at the Finance Forum on September 30, 2024, Professor Gatsi emphasized that independent constitutional bodies, such as the EC, cannot operate like “secret societies” but must adhere to transparency, accountability, and integrity as pillars of good governance.
Prof Gatsi advocated for external audits of the voters register, noting that while internal audits are standard practice, an independent audit is imperative to ensure that legal procedures have been followed. He dismissed concerns that external audits could compromise the EC’s independence, arguing that involving independent professionals to audit operational and IT systems is consistent with international electoral best practices.
“The argument that bringing in an independent IT audit firm violates the EC’s independence is a defense mechanism not supported by law or practice,” he remarked.
Citing global precedents, including Kenya’s 2017 audit by KPMG, Mexico’s audit by Ernst & Young in 2006 and 2012, and Zimbabwe’s 2018 audit by PwC, he highlighted the importance of such measures in safeguarding electoral integrity.
Prof Gatsi further urged the EC and political parties to prioritize the credibility of the voters register by conducting these external audits, warning against using time constraints as an excuse to undermine the process.
He concluded by stressing that external validation plays a crucial role in rebuilding electoral integrity, particularly given the EC’s partial reliance on international funding.
