CHRAJ boss condemns Ayawaso West Wuogon MP for distributing food during special voting

Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Dr. Joseph Akanjolenur Whittal, has criticized Lydia Alhassan, Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency for distributing food during Monday’s special voting exercise.

Addressing the media earlier today, Dr. Whittal labeled the act as inappropriate, expressing concerns about its potential to compromise the credibility of the electoral process.

“I know the Member of Parliament has denied it, but it is not right to treat, treat as in the legal term, to share food, to share money, to anybody in the queue in preparation to vote, because it is tantamount to corruption and an integrity issue”, he said in an interview with TV3.

As part of efforts to safeguard the integrity of the elections, he announced CHRAJ has trained and deployed 300 personnel to polling centers across the country.

These officers will monitor and record activities at the voting stations to ensure transparency and fairness.

“For the 2024 elections, we are going to deploy 300 staff across the length and breadth of the country who will observe the elections, but with a tool, a checklist that will enable us monitor the right to vote”, he announced.

In addition, Dr. Whittal highlighted the importance of inclusivity in the electoral process, especially as December 3 marks the International Day for Persons with Disabilities.

He urged election officials to prioritize persons with disabilities at polling stations, ensuring their full participation in the elections without barriers.

Dr. Whittal’s remarks come as Ghana prepares for a critical electoral period, with increasing calls for political actors to adhere to ethical standards and uphold the integrity of the democratic process.

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