The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to reconsider its decision to limit media access to collation centres for the upcoming 2024 elections.
The EC’s memo to its regional directors specified that only eight media houses would receive accreditation for each constituency collation center.
This allocation consists of three TV stations, each staffed with two employees, and five radio stations, each with one representative.
At the regional collation centres, the EC announced that 12 media houses would be allowed access. This includes five TV stations, each with two personnel, and seven radio stations, each with one representative.
The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) believes that imposing these limitations may have a negative impact on transparency and accountability in the collation process. They are urging the Electoral Commission (EC) to reassess their stance and recognize the importance of the media in guaranteeing fair elections.
Dr. Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairperson of the EC, justified the decision by saying that the commission believed it was necessary to limit the number of people in order to facilitate a seamless collation process.
At the constituency level, we believe that eight media houses are suitable, while at the regional level, twelve media houses are considered appropriate.
The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) argues that despite the assurances given, these restrictions could potentially limit the media’s capacity to adequately report on the election process and uphold accountability.
The foundation has called on the EC to reconsider its position and permit wider media coverage in order to enhance transparency and bolster public confidence in the electoral process.
Expressing shock at the EC’s directive, Executive Director Sulemana Braimah emphasized the importance of the EC reversing the decision.
When did media coverage start to focus solely on radio and television, disregarding newspapers and online publications? I believe this action is misguided, but better late than never. He stated that this is something that he believes should be reversed.
