The Electoral Commission (EC) has issued new directives to its regional directors, restricting the number of media and observer groups allowed at collation centres during the 2024 general elections. The move aims to enhance security and ensure efficient operations throughout the collation process.
According to the guidelines, only eight media organizations will be permitted at constituency collation centres. At the regional level, access will be limited to 12 media outlets, comprising five television stations and seven radio stations.
Dr. Eric Bossman Asare, Deputy Commissioner of the EC, explained the rationale behind the decision in an interview on Eyewitness News on Tuesday, November 26. He emphasized that the restrictions were based on past experiences and the need to manage the centres effectively.
“We made this decision considering the history and dynamics of our collation centres. Poor management of these spaces can lead to significant challenges,” Dr. Bossman Asare said.
He further stated that the measure is not limited to media access but extends to other groups involved in the collation process.
“For instance, at a constituency like Banda, Hohoe, or Bantama, we believe eight media houses are sufficient to disseminate information effectively,” he added.
The EC is optimistic that this arrangement will facilitate a smooth collation exercise at both constituency and regional levels while minimizing disruptions.