The main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is set to embark on a nationwide protest today, Tuesday, 17 September 2024, to demand a forensic audit of the voter register managed by the Electoral Commission (EC) ahead of the December general elections.

The protest will take place in all 16 regional capitals as the NDC continues to raise concerns over alleged discrepancies in the voter register.

Speaking at a press briefing, NDC General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey confirmed that the party had finalised arrangements with the police to ensure the protest proceeds peacefully.

“We had a very good meeting with the regional police bosses, and the agreement is that we are going to proceed with our demonstration on the 17th of this month," Mr. Kwetey announced.

According to him, the protest aims to go beyond partisan interests, focusing on the broader issue of ensuring a credible electoral process.

“The country is heading toward critical elections, and it is in everyone’s interest to ensure that the voters' register is credible and trustworthy,” Mr. Kwetey said. He stressed that the NDC is calling for a forensic audit to ensure transparency in the upcoming elections, urging the EC to open its doors for verification.

“If there is nothing to hide, I think there should really be no problem at all. They should open their doors and say, come and check… to be certain that everything is okay,” Mr. Kwetey added.

The protest will see NDC leaders submit petitions to the EC’s regional offices, demanding immediate action.

In Accra, the demonstration will begin at Kwame Nkrumah Circle, pass through the TUC and Ministries, and end at the EC headquarters.

The NDC’s National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, also weighed in, explaining that the protest was sparked by the EC’s refusal to conduct a forensic audit of the voter register.

Meanwhile, NDC’s flagbearer John Dramani Mahama, who has consistently championed the cause, reiterated the importance of transparency. He called on Ghanaians to support the party’s efforts to safeguard a fair electoral process.

“Our issues with the Electoral Commission are not because we don’t like the commissioners or the EC. Our issue with the Electoral Commission is that we want peace during and after the election,” Mr. Mahama said while addressing supporters in Sampa, Bono Region.

He stressed that public pressure on the EC was crucial to ensure accountability and prevent any post-election unrest.

“If we desire free, fair, and peaceful elections, then the EC must up their game and do things right,” he added.