Referendum: EC notifies security agencies on alleged malpractice; investigation underway

The Electoral Commission says it has commenced investigation into videos that went viral on social media showing some electoral officials allegedly engaging in electoral fraud on Thursday. In one of these videos, a man was seen seated among colleagues all believed to be accredited officials of the Commission thump printing ballot papers for the December 27 referendum. The referendum was conducted in six proposed new regions but the electoral malpractices appeared to have occurred in the Oti region. It is the only region that had a number of persons opposing its creation. Many who watched the videos suspected that the EC officials got involved to ensure that the percentage required for the creation of the Oti region was obtained. Read also: Controversial Oti Region gets 98.64% endorsement But addressing the media Friday evening on the outcome of the referendum on, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Mensa said the Commission’s attention has been drawn to the infractions. She maintained that such actions cannot be condoned as they go against the credibility of the her outfit. “The Commission takes this seriously and has notified the regional directors and security agencies. I think it is important to emphasise that the Commission has as a hallmark of its operations, the principles of fairness, integrity and transparency in all its operations. “We are waiting to hear from our officials and the security agencies on the line of action to take. We are not familiar with these officers, investigations are going on and… we also calling on members of the public to present any evidence that they may have to the commission and to the police. Once that is done, we will know the next line of action to take.” Mrs. Mensa was categorical that persons found culpable would be dealt with. “But I think it is important to emphasise that the commission will not shield any person whether permanent or temporarily staff who is found to have violated the law and I think it is important we put that on record.” Asked about her general assessment of Thursday’s referendum, Mrs. Mensah said, “I think it has been a very successful process…there has been no hitch”. Meanwhile, Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, Volta Regional Minister who doubles as the Regional Security Council, told 3news.com on Thursday that the incident would be investigated. READ MORE Check also: How the six new regions voted to gain ‘independence’ [Infographics] By Isaac Essel | 3news.com | Ghana Follow @IsaacEssel ]]>