Ghana Opposition Party Demands Investigation Over Missing Voter Biometrics Tech

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) of Ghana is urging a comprehensive and immediate investigation into the recent allegations of biometric electoral equipment theft. During a press conference in Accra, the party’s General Secretary, Mr. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, detailed the party’s demands for a forensic audit of the voters’ register and the security measures at the Electoral Commission (EC) headquarters.

Mr. Kwetey underscored the need for the investigation to be conducted by an independent body, supported by international observers, to ensure neutrality and thoroughness. This demand follows the alarming theft of Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) kits, which has raised significant concerns about the integrity of electoral processes in Ghana.

Mr. Kwetey conveyed the gravity of the situation, stating, “The credibility of the upcoming elections and the future of democracy in our country will depend on how the Electoral Commission responds to these issues.”

In response to these breaches, the NDC is not just calling for a review of the incident but is also insisting on a full audit of all EC’s inventory and security protocols. This extensive audit would include all Biometric Voter Registration and Biometric Verification Device equipment to verify the integrity of all electoral materials and processes. Mr. Kwetey expressed that these demands reflect the people’s will for a transparent, fair, and secure electoral process.

The importance of these demands is highlighted by the recent arrests of four individuals, including three EC employees, who allegedly participated in the theft of five Dell laptops, components of the stolen BVR kits. Police investigations have since recovered additional stolen items and have uncovered potential insider threats or external breaches in the electoral system, further stressing the need for stringent security measures.

Mr. Kwetey warned that the alleged theft indicates broader systemic vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited to alter electoral outcomes. He reaffirmed the NDC’s commitment to hold the Electoral Commission accountable, demanding transparency and immediate action to rectify these security lapses.

As the EC and law enforcement continue their investigation, the international community and the citizens of Ghana watch closely, expecting that the Electoral Commission will implement concrete solutions and preventative measures to safeguard the integrity of the nation’s democratic processes.

Sources: Ghanaian Times, Pulse Ghana

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April 18, 2024 – by Cass Kennedy