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The Minority group in Parliament has accused the Electoral Commission (EC) of violating electoral laws by opting not to use indelible ink in upcoming elections.
This accusation comes in response to the EC’s announcement of plans to phase out the use of indelible ink, a traditional method employed to prevent multiple voting by marking voters’ fingers.
The EC, led by Chairperson Jean Mensa, intends to replace indelible ink with more “modern” verification procedures during district-level elections and subsequent polls, with the aim of enhancing the overall electoral process.
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During a debate on the budget estimate for the EC in the upcoming year, First Deputy Minority Whip Ahmed Ibrahim and Member of Parliament for South Dayi Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor argued that the EC’s decision contravenes laws passed by Parliament.
They emphasized that the use of indelible ink is a crucial element outlined in regulations to ensure the effective performance of the Electoral Commission.
Ahmed Ibrahim stated, “The issue of the non-use of the indelible ink breaches the law… Mr. Speaker, you cannot come to Parliament with an instrument where protocols have been outlined, and you, as an administrative fiat, decide that you won’t go according to the protocol.” He further asserted that the Electoral Commissioner must adhere to regulations that facilitate effective performance.
