Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, the Director of Electoral Services at the Electoral Commission (EC), has affirmed the commission’s unwavering stance in the face of mounting skepticism surrounding its procedures leading up to the 2024 general elections.
Despite the concerns raised by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding potential bias favoring the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Quaicoe stressed the EC’s dedication to maintaining impartiality.
The NDC has consistently questioned the neutrality of EC officials and expressed anxieties about potential compromises during the electoral process.
Pointing to the recent Ejisu by-election as an illustration, wherein Kwadaso MP Dr. Kingsley Nyarko was reportedly seen in a video allegedly offering a white envelope to EC officials, which was perceived as a bribe, the NDC reiterated their worries regarding electoral integrity.
During an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Face to Face on Citi TV, Dr. Quaicoe affirmed that the commission is strictly adhering to legal protocols in carrying out its responsibilities, asserting that their actions will withstand scrutiny over time.
He analogized the NDC’s apprehensions to criticisms directed at a football referee prior to a match, implying that such critiques could serve as a tactic to keep the EC vigilant.
Reflecting on the Ejisu elections, which were marred by various conspiracy theories, Dr. Quaicoe recalled that they concluded with all candidates applauding the EC for its conduct.
“When we were going to Ejisu, there were a lot of conspiracy theories, but when we finished, all the candidates were patting us on the back. We don’t pay much attention to comments like that, because once you know you’re doing what is right, go ahead and do it, you will be vindicated by going by the law.”
He reminisced about the tenure of Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, the former EC Boss, who assumed the position in 1992 and served for 23 years despite facing numerous challenges surrounding the 1992 elections.
“Since 1992, when Dr Kwadwo Afari-Gyan [former EC Boss] was appointed as a chair, he was part of those who conducted the 1992 elections and there were a lot of issues about that. But he was there for about 23 years. So, some of these things, complaints will come, but you should focus and do what is right. Posterity will judge all of us. I always say that you should be clear in your conscience.
“Once your conscience clears you, God has cleared you, that is our philosophy, so we’re doing what is right. And I know and hope they know what we’re doing is right. But in an election, it’s like going to play a football match, you take on the referee. So that the referee will sit up and say that even when we have not started, they are criticising me.
“Maybe it could be a strategy they are adopting. Once you know what you are doing is right, you know posterity will judge you. We’re not agitated at all.”