A coalition of 18 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Ghana has vehemently opposed the implementation of the new biometric voter system proposed by the Electoral Commission (EC). The CSOs have raised concerns about the cost and feasibility of the proposed system, arguing that it would entail significant expenditure without commensurate benefits.
The EC's plan to replace the current biometric voter system, which has been in use since 2016 and is valued at $60 million, has sparked controversy among various stakeholders. According to the CSOs, the proposed new system is estimated to cost $150 million, including contingency funds, representing a substantial increase in expenditure.
IMANI, a prominent think tank, has conducted a detailed analysis suggesting that the EC's spending plans are inflated by approximately 60% compared to best practices in other African countries. The CSOs have highlighted concerns about the exorbitant cost of the proposed system, arguing that it far exceeds the budgets allocated for similar projects in other African nations.
In a joint statement, the CSOs, including IMANI, have outlined the key reasons for their opposition to the EC's initiative. They cite concerns about cost-effectiveness, feasibility, and the lack of transparency in the procurement process as major factors influencing their stance against the new biometric voter system.
The CSOs have called for a thorough review of the EC's proposal and greater consultation with relevant stakeholders to ensure that any changes to the electoral system are in the best interests of the country. They emphasize the importance of accountability and transparency in the electoral process to uphold the integrity of Ghana's democracy.