By Jones Anlimah
The positioning of voting booths at some polling centers in the Ho West constituency of the Volta region in the ongoing elections undermines the principle of secret balloting. GBCNEWS made this observation during a visit to some of the polling centers in the constituency.
The Officers of the commission at the EP primary school A and B in Dzolokpuita have however defended the arrangement, stating that the booths were deliberately positioned to prevent voters from recording themselves while casting their ballots. According to the Presiding Officers of the two polling centers who refused to give out their names, this precaution is aimed at curbing practices that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process, such as vote-buying or undue influence through evidence of voting choices.
However, some voters argue that the current setup exposes them to scrutiny, making it possible for others to see how they vote. This has led to many questioning whether the measures to prevent voter misconduct are worth compromising the fundamental tenet of secrecy in elections.
A voter Elizabeth Amedetor, expressed her frustration and stated “This defeats the purpose of a secret ballot. How can I be sure my vote is confidential when someone standing behind me might see how I cast my ballot?”
It is the hope of many including some observers at the polling centers that EC officials will urgently review the situation and find a solution that addresses both concerns without compromising either principle. As the controversy lingers on at the two polling stations in Ho West, voters and stakeholders are hopeful for a swift resolution.
