Electoral Commission Suspends Directive to Limit Media Access at Collation Centres.

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Accra: The Electoral Commission has announced the suspension of its earlier decision to limit the number of accredited media houses permitted at collation centres on December 7. This decision was revealed by Dr. Bossman Asare, the Deputy Commissioner, during the 'Graphic National Development Series' held in Accra on Wednesday. According to Ghana News Agency, the suspension followed discussions with the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) and the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), both of which had expressed concerns over the initial directive. Dr. Asare assured stakeholders that further engagement would take place to craft a new policy on media access to the collation centres. He clarified that the original directive was not intended to restrict media coverage but rather to manage the process effectively and avoid chaos at the centres. Dr. Asare highlighted the challenges posed by the large number of media houses, noting that some regions could host up to 400 media outlets, which could overw helm smaller collation centres. The directive aimed to ensure orderliness and not to impede media reporting on the elections. A memo from the Commission dated November 25, 2024, had earlier indicated that eight media organisations would be accredited to cover collation activities in the constituencies. During the forum, Dr. Asare emphasized that the Electoral Commission would not undermine the role of the media in ensuring free and fair elections. He also reiterated the EC's commitment to either maintain or improve the 79 percent voter turnout recorded in the 2020 elections and assured that the Commission was dedicated to ensuring a successful election. Dr. Asare encouraged voters to participate actively in the upcoming elections and highlighted the EC's preparations to facilitate the voting process. He also urged political parties and their candidates to educate their agents on the electoral process to prevent chaos at polling stations. The Deputy Commissioner further mentioned ongoing collaboration with s ecurity agencies to maintain order during the polls, asserting that the 2024 elections would reflect the people's will. The Graphic National Development Series, themed 'Sustaining Civic and Democratic Governance Systems for Development, Mandate of All Citizens,' served as a platform to build national consensus on critical issues and influence policy. Mr. Ato Afful, Managing Director of Graphic Communications Group, reiterated the company's commitment to promoting civic and democratic governance and supporting transparent and accountable governance. He encouraged the youth to exercise their civic duties responsibly and urged political actors to prioritize the national interest over partisan gains.

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