#Election2024: Women were targeted, some fled polling stations due to violence — GenCED

The Gender Centre for Empowering Development (GenCED) has raised concerns over incidents of violence and targeting of women during the ongoing elections, which forced some women to abandon polling stations.

This was revealed in GenCED’s Election Day briefing, which highlighted the need for stronger measures to ensure women’s safety in the electoral process.

One notable case occurred at the UDS Nyankpala polling station in the Tolon Constituency, where voting was halted around 1:00 pm due to a misunderstanding between suspected supporters of political parties escalated.

The situation, triggered by allegations of voter inducement, led to gunshots being fired. “The tension caused many voters, especially women, to flee the area for their safety,” GenCED reported.

The organization also documented instances of women being specifically targeted at polling stations.

At Ayawaso West Wuogon, several party agents were seen actively profiling and attempting to persuade women to vote for specific candidates. Such practices, according to GenCED, undermine the principles of free and fair elections.

Dr. Rose Mensah-Kutin, Executive Director for Abantu for Development and a member of the Gender Election Watch Situation Room, condemned these incidents.

“Women’s participation in elections is critical to democracy. Targeting and intimidation tactics discourage women from exercising their right to vote and must be addressed,” she stated.

GenCED urged the Electoral Commission and security agencies to enhance protective measures at polling stations and ensure a safe environment for all voters.

“This is not just about security but about safeguarding the democratic rights of women,” Dr. Mensah-Kutin noted.

The organization deployed 230 observers nationwide during the elections and is calling on stakeholders to investigate the incidents and implement measures to prevent recurrence in future elections.