Political Science Lecturer at University of Ghana, Prof Ransford Gyampo and former Auditor General Yaw Domelevo have criticized the Electoral Commission of Ghana’s recent decision to limit media access at collation centers for the upcoming December 7 elections.
The Electoral Commission, led by Chairperson Jean Mensa, has implemented new guidelines that limit media presence at collation centers.
Under these regulations, only eight media outlets will be allowed at each constituency collation center, while access at regional centers will be capped at twelve outlets, including five television stations and seven radio stations.
The EC has justified these restrictions as necessary for maintaining a secure and efficient collation process.
Professor Ransford Gyampo, a respected academic and political commentator, has publicly condemned the EC’s decision.
He argues that such restrictions are not in line with Ghanaian democratic practices. “This is not what we are used to,” Gyampo stated emphatically. “If we are advocating for transparency, then limiting media access contradicts that principle.”
Gyampo also expressed his personal connection to Jean Mensa, noting their long-standing professional relationship. “I have worked with her for 14 years; she is like a sister to me. However, when it comes to matters of public interest, there are no personal ties that should influence our stance. I urge her to reconsider this decision,” he added
Prof Gyampo warned that if the Electoral Commission, led by Jean Mensah, refuses to rescind its decision, there will be severe consequences.
He stated, ‘I will speak my mind forcefully if she decides not to reverse the decision’.
Joining Gyampo in his criticism, Yaw Domelevo has called for a unified response from the media community.
He suggested that all accredited media outlets should consider boycotting the elections if the EC does not lift the restrictions. “I think the media accredited to cover the election should all boycott it, so either all in or all out”, Domelevo asserted. “The media must stand united and tell the Electoral Commission that if they deny us access, then nobody should be allowed in.”
Domelevo emphasized that restricting media access undermines the public’s right to information and could lead to a lack of trust in the electoral process.
“the EC do not have the right to deny Ghanaians access to information”, he noted.
The duo spoke at the Crusaders Against Corruption One Day Conference held at the KNUST School of Business Auditorium in the Ashanti Region.
The directive has sparked widespread backlash, with many stakeholders calling it an attack on media freedom and transparency in the electoral process.
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