The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has terminated its contract with Yasarko Printing Press Limited, originally commissioned to print ballot papers for the Oti and Western North regions for the upcoming December 7 general elections.

The responsibility has now been assigned to Buck Press Limited and Acts Commercials Limited, which will print ballot papers for the Oti and Western North regions, respectively.

The EC’s decision, announced in a statement issued on Friday, 25 October 2024, signed by its Deputy Chairman for Operations, Samuel Tettey follows heightened scrutiny from the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding the transparency and fairness of the electoral preparations.

The NDC raised questions about Yasarko Printing Press Limited's capability and impartiality to manage such a vital electoral task, urging the EC to provide assurances on measures to prevent ballot tampering.

The party has underscored the need for rigorous oversight over contracted firms, particularly in regions with closely contested parliamentary seats.

Since initiating the ballot printing process on Friday, 11 October 2024, the EC has been under intense observation from political parties and civil society groups.

The statement reiterated the EC’s commitment to transparency and impartiality.

“The commission assures all stakeholders that Buck Press Limited and Acts Commercials Limited will uphold the same rigorous standards required to safeguard the security and accuracy of the ballot papers,” the statement added.