To Vote On Election Day, You D0n’t Need Your Voter’s ID – Dr. Bossman Asare Discloses
Dr. Bossman Asare, a Deputy Commissioner at the Electoral Commission (EC), in charge of corporate services has assured the public that possessing a voter identification card is not mandatory to exercise their franchise.
The statement highlights the EC’s commitment to ensuring a smooth, transparent, and accessible voting process on December 7.
Dr. Asare disclosed this during an exclusive interview with TV3 on Monday, November 25, 2024, where he outlined the measures in place to facilitate voter participation.
“To vote on election day, you don’t need your voter ID. If you have it, it makes the process easier. However, even without it, you will still be able to cast your vote,” he affirmed.
Comprehensive Procedures To Verify Voters
The EC has implemented a detailed verification process to accommodate voters without their ID cards. Dr. Asare explained that polling stations would be equipped with officials and systems to ensure the identification of every registered voter.
“The first point of contact is the Name Reference Officer, who has a complete list of all registered voters at the polling station,” he stated. “If you don’t have your voter ID card, you can simply provide your name. The officer will verify your details, including your surname, column, and page number in the register.”
Once identified, the voter’s name will be relayed to the Verification Officer, who will scan the barcode in the voters’ register to confirm their eligibility.
Dr. Asare’s announcement is a significant step in Ghana’s electoral journey, ensuring no registered voter is disenfranchised due to the absence of their voter ID. This approach aligns with the EC’s mandate to uphold fairness and accessibility in elections.
“Let me emphasize, even if your voter ID card is missing, please go to your polling station on election day. You will still be able to vote,” he reiterated.
He also confirmed that both presidential and parliamentary elections are set to proceed as planned on December 7.
The Bigger Picture
The announcement has sparked widespread discussion among Ghanaians, with many commending the EC for prioritizing inclusivity.
Analysts believe this decision could boost voter turnout, especially among those who may have misplaced their voter ID cards.
However, some have expressed concerns about potential challenges in the verification process, such as delays or discrepancies in the register.
The EC, in response, has assured the public of adequate training for polling officials and deployment of necessary resources to address such issues swiftly.
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