A Forensic Audit of the Electoral Register is essential for the Democratic Integrity of the EC

The electoral register, which records eligible voters, is a crucial constituent in ensuring that elections are conducted transparently and accurately. Therefore, the Electoral Commission of Ghana ought to have created an internally-built corrective mechanism that ensures the electoral register is clean, and accordingly becomes a document that all the stakeholders of the electoral processes trust. The exhibition of the electoral register should have been such a corrective mechanism, but electors and the political parties do not utilise the processes of exhibition to improve on the quality of the register.

As a growing institution, the Electoral Commission of Ghana should have avenues available for building and improving on its integrity. The 2012 and the 2020 elections have exposed the weakness of the Commission which affect its integrity. To avoid worsening the integrity of the Commission, it is imperative for the electoral register to be audited before its usage for the conduct of general elections in Ghana. It should not even be an urge of a major political party such as the National Democratic Congress.

A forensic audit is a reasonable process as it ensures accuracy and transparency in the electoral process. Inaccuracies in the register, such as duplicate entries, deceased individuals still listed, or unqualified persons being included, can lead to voter fraud or disenfranchisement. A forensic audit systematically examines the register to identify and correct these errors. Even if the National Democratic Congress is unable to demonstrate duplicate entries, deceased individuals still listed in the register or minors being captured, the call for such an audit is technically valid.

This point is remarkably and unmistakably made by Prof. E. Kofi Abotsi (on X app) that audits by their nature confirm or refute allegations and that it is in the interest of Ghana and the Commission’s own interest to dispel the allegation of the National Democratic Congress. Such an opinion must be supported by all average-thinking Ghanaians to compel the EC to allow for an audit of the electoral register to dismiss any instances of doubt in the register and the results it will produce. A forensic audit, conducted by independent experts or representatives of the political parties can help clear these doubts by providing a detailed and impartial assessment of the register's integrity. This is vital for upholding the credibility of the elections and the Electoral Commission of Ghana.

Electoral fraud undermines the integrity of a democracy, and can have far-reaching consequences for a nation's political stability. In many cases, fraudulent practices can occur due to weaknesses in the electoral register, such as the presence of ineligible voters or the manipulation of voter data. A forensic audit serves as a powerful tool to detect and prevent such fraud.

The call by the NDC should not be treated casually and be set aside because there is a legal protection of the Commission in the performance of its function. The Electoral Commission of Ghana must not act behind the veil of Article 46 of the Constitution, which outlines that “except as provided in this Constitution or in any other law not inconsistent with this Constitution, in the performance of its functions, the Electoral Commission, shall not be subject to the direction or control of any person or authority”, including political parties (emphasis mine). There is the need to dissipate the allegation by the NDC through an audit. This is essential for maintaining a stable political environment and fostering active political engagement.

In the digital age, electoral registers are often maintained using electronic systems, which, while efficient, also introduce new vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity threats, such as hacking or data breaches, can compromise the integrity of voter data. A forensic audit is an effective means of identifying and mitigating these technological vulnerabilities.

By scrutinizing the electronic systems used to maintain the electoral register, a forensic audit can detect signs of tampering, unauthorized access, or data manipulation. It can also assess the adequacy of cybersecurity measures in place to protect voter information. Addressing these vulnerabilities is crucial to ensure that the electoral register is secure and that the data it contains cannot be exploited to compromise the fairness of elections.

There is a demand for the lawmakers in Ghana to enact a law that requires the Electoral Commission of Ghana to have an internally-built auditing mechanism of all its processes and systems before the conduct of an election. The EC should not rely on its exhibition procedure as a means of a cleaning system for its register. This will warrant that all aspects of the electoral processes be conducted in accordance with these established legal standards. It will forcefully compel the Electoral Commission of Ghana to subject its practices to scrutiny. The Commission is vehemently resisting the call for an audit because there are no statutes that sanction the Commission if it acts unilaterally.

A forensic audit does more than just identifying existing problems; it also provides valuable insights that can guide future improvements in the electoral system. A forensic audit can inform reforms aimed at enhancing the registration process, voter verification methods, and data management practices. The findings of a forensic audit may lead to the implementation of a more robust voter identification procedures, the adoption of advanced data security measures, or the introduction of new technologies to streamline voter registration. These reforms can contribute to a more resilient and reliable electoral system, ensuring that future elections are conducted with the highest standards of integrity.

A forensic audit of the electoral register is not merely a technical procedure; it is a vital safeguard for maintaining the democratic integrity of the EC and Ghana. By ensuring the accuracy and transparency of the voter roll, preventing electoral fraud, enhancing voter confidence, addressing technological vulnerabilities, and facilitating systemic improvements, a forensic audit will strengthen the democratic processes of Ghana.

The legitimacy of elections is unquestionably a major concern, and so it is crucial for the Electoral Commission of Ghana to embrace such audits as a means of demonstrating their commitment to free and fair elections. A forensic audit of Ghana's electoral register is essential for ensuring electoral integrity, transparency, and accountability. By permitting this audit, the EC demonstrates its commitment to democratic principles and the country's electoral progress. In fairness, I urge the EC to take proactive steps towards a forensic audit, safeguarding the credibility of Ghana's electoral process.

Emmanuel Kwabena Wucharey
Economics Tutor, Advocate and Religion Enthusiast.