By The Electoral Commission of Ghana has addressed concerns regarding the security of its Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) following recent speculations arising from a circulated memo titled ‘Return of biometric verification devices,’ reportedly signed by the Deputy Chairman of Operations.
In a memo dated Thursday, March 7, the EC directed its regional offices, including Greater Accra, Eastern, Western, Central, Upper East, Savannah, Northern, North East, Western North, and Volta, to return all outstanding Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) to the head office.
In a statement released on Friday, March 22, 2024, the Commission clarified that the memo in question was a routine communication aimed at ensuring the accountability and proper return of all electoral equipment, including BVDs, to the Commission’s custody.
The Commission clarified that there have been no thefts of BVDs from their stores, contrary to rumours circulating on social media.
According to the statement, the only items stolen were five laptops, which are separate from the BVDs and cannot impact the integrity of elections.
“The memo in question, widely shared on social media, was a routine communication aimed at ensuring the accountability and returning of all electoral equipment, including BVDs, to the Commission’s custody. This procedure underscores our rigorous asset management system, designed to maintain a transparent and accountable inventory of all Commission assets. This Commission places high value on all its assets.”
They further assured the public that the BVDs are equipped with advanced security features and cannot be exploited to compromise the integrity of elections without proper activation within the Commission’s electoral framework.
The Commission reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in its operations and safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process.
Additionally, the Commission urged the public and all stakeholders to disseminate information accurately and responsibly to prevent the propagation of unverified speculations that could erode public trust in the democratic processes.
