Ghana
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Comments: Ghana shall be divided into as many constituencies for the purpose of election of members of parliametn as the Electoral Commission may prescribe, and each constituency shall be represented by one member of Parliament."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 47)
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:05:00 UTC
BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
c. The Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Electoral Commission..."where the boundaries of a constituency established under this article are altered as a result of a review, the alteraton shall come into effect upon the next dissolution of Parliament."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 47 (1 & 7)]
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:05:26 UTC
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
b. Respecting natural barriers
d. Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries
e. Geographic size of district
f. Communities of interest/cultural concerns
Comments: " (2) No consituency shall fall within more than one regions. (3) The boundaries of each consittuency shall be such tht the number of inhabitants in the constitutency is, as nearly as possible, equal to the population quota. (4) for the purposes of clause (3) of this article, the number of inhabitants of a constituency may be greater or less than the populatoin quota in order to take account of means of communication, geographical features, density of population and area and boundaries of regions and other administrative or traditional areas."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 47 (2, 3 & 4)
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:05:58 UTC
BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
f. Other
Comments: For the purpoese of Clause (3)of this article.............or traditional areas.
Source: The constitution of the Republic of Ghana article 47 Clause (4)
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:26:59 UTC
BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
a. Legislature (specify chamber)
Comments: For the purposes of this article, "population quota" means the number obtained by dividing the number of inhabitants of ghana by the number of constituencyes into which Ghana is divided under this article."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 47 (7)]
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:06:59 UTC
BD06 What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
j. National census
l. Other
Comments: "The Electoral Commission shall review the division of Ghana into constituencies at intervals of not less than seven years, or within twelve months after the publication of the enumeration figures after the holding of a census of the population of Ghana, whichever is earlier, and may, as a result, alter the constituencies."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 47 (5)]
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:07:32 UTC
Direct Democracy
DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: FREDA PEPRAH
b. Job Title: RESEARCH ASSISTANT
c. Organisation: GHANA CENTER FOR DEMOCRATIC DEVELOPMENT
d. Contact Address. P. O. BOX LG 404 LEGON, ACCRA
e. Telephone: 233 -21 -784293/784294
f. Facsimile: 233 -21 -763028
g. Email: afuaoforiwa@yahoo.com
Last updated: 2005-10-14 14:11:48 UTC
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
a. Mandatory referendum
Last updated: 2005-10-14 14:14:12 UTC
DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
Source: 1992 Constitution of the republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-10-14 14:15:09 UTC
DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-10-14 14:16:09 UTC
DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
a. Constitutional
Last updated: 2005-10-14 14:31:45 UTC
DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?
a. Constitutional
Source: The 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-14 18:46:06 UTC
DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Comments: This is applicable at the district level.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-14 18:48:09 UTC
DD08 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
Comments: Basically through parliament.
Source: Chapter twenty - five of the 1992 constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-14 18:51:41 UTC
DD09 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Source: The 1992 constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-14 18:54:41 UTC
DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
Comments: As spelt out in the 1992 Constitution.
Source: Chapter twenty - five of the 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-14 18:56:50 UTC
DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-14 18:57:30 UTC
DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Comments: Applicable at the district level.
Source: The 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-14 18:59:16 UTC
DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level?
Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1957 Constitution
b. Optional referendum Not applicable
c. Citizens' initiative 1957 Constitution
d. Agenda initiative 1957 Consttitution
e. Recall Not Applicable at teh national level.
Source: Past and Current Constitutions of the Republic of Ghana (1992)
Last updated: 2005-12-14 19:06:45 UTC
DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1957
b. Optional referendum Not appplicable
c. Citizens' initiative 1957
d. Agenda initiative 1957
e. Recall Not applicable at the national level
Source: Past and present Constitutions
Last updated: 2005-12-14 19:09:38 UTC
DD15 Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
b. Independent electoral commission
d. Legislature
Comments: Parliament passes the law and the Electoral Commission over sees the voting.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-14 19:12:20 UTC
DD16 Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
a. Yes
Source: The 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-14 19:14:03 UTC
DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-10-14 16:05:36 UTC
DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-14 19:15:34 UTC
DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
d. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-14 19:16:41 UTC
DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
d. Not applicable
Comments: Applicable at the district level.
Source: 1992 constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 17:01:16 UTC
DD21 Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
d. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 17:02:19 UTC
DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Source: The Local Governemnt Act, Act 462
Last updated: 2005-12-15 17:03:01 UTC
DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
d. Not applicable
Source: The 1992 Constitution and the Local Government Act.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 17:04:14 UTC
DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Source: The Local Government Act 462
Last updated: 2005-12-14 19:35:44 UTC
DD25 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
d. Not applicable
Source: the 1992 Constitution and Local Government Act 426
Last updated: 2005-12-15 17:07:46 UTC
DD26 Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Source: The Local Government Act 462
Last updated: 2005-12-15 18:37:05 UTC
DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
Source: Chapter 25 of the 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 18:44:08 UTC
DD28 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
l. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 18:45:25 UTC
DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
b. Adoption of international treaties
c. Transfer of authority to international bodies
d. National sovereignty, national self-determination
e. Conflict between constitutional organs
f. Devolution
g. Civil service
h. Taxes and public expenditure commitments
i. Other public policy issues
j. Other (specify)
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 18:47:05 UTC
DD30 Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
f. Not applicable
Comments: Issues at the national levels are same for the Sub - national levels in this respect.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 18:50:58 UTC
DD31 Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
d. Legislative majority
Comments: The legislature does the referendum by an Act of Parliament.
Source: 1992 Constitution, Article 286 Section 1.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 18:52:55 UTC
DD32 Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
d. Legislature
Source: Aritcle 289 (1) of the 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 18:54:02 UTC
DD33 Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
g. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 18:55:16 UTC
DD34 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
e. Other (specify)
Comments: Not explicitly stated in the Article.
Source: Article 290 (4) of the 192 constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:04:49 UTC
DD35 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
f. Not applicable
Source: 1992 constitution Chapter Twenty - Five
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:06:52 UTC
DD36 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
b. Independent electoral commission
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:08:16 UTC
DD37 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
f. Not applicable
Source: 1992 constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:09:07 UTC
DD38 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
a. Turnout quorum Forty Per cent
b. Approval quorum Seventy - five
Source: Article 290(4) of the 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:10:22 UTC
DD39 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
Comments: Not Applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:11:22 UTC
DD40 What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
b. Qualified majority (specify % below)
Comments: Seventy - five per cent of the voter population turn out.
Source: Article 290(4). of the 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:15:13 UTC
DD41 What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
e. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:17:33 UTC
DD42 In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election?
Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
f. Other
Comments: The options are the same for national elections except the quroum.
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:19:24 UTC
DD43 When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
a. Always
Comments: As it is mandatory under the 1992 constitution
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:20:54 UTC
DD44 When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
d. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:22:21 UTC
DD45 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
Source: Chapter Twenty - five of the 1992 constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:24:21 UTC
DD46 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
Source: 1992 Constitution Chapter Twenty - five
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:25:57 UTC
DD47 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
j. Other (specify)
Comments: By an Act of Parliament any provision of the constitution can be amended.
Source: Article 289 (1) of the 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:30:50 UTC
DD48 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
j. Other (specify)
Comments: Any provision of the Constitution can be amended.
Source: Chapter 25 of the 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:35:50 UTC
DD49 Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
a. A number of individuals
Comments: A private member's Bill is apllicable in this sense.
Source: 1992 constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:37:52 UTC
DD50 Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
a. A number of individuals
Comments: A private member or in Parliament by a parliamentarian.
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:39:22 UTC
DD51 What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
b. General explanation of purpose
c. Full proposed text
Source: Standing orders of Parliament.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:40:32 UTC
DD52 Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
d. Legislature
Source: Standing Orders of Parliament
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:41:25 UTC
DD53 Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
d. Legislature
Source: Standing Orders of Parliament
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:42:00 UTC
DD54 Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
a. Inconsistency with proposed content
c. Discriminatory or inflammatory statements
Source: Standing Orders of Parliament.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:43:16 UTC
DD55 Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
d. Other (specify)
Comments: Parliament of Ghana.
Source: Standing Orders of Parliament.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:45:09 UTC
DD56 Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
a. An automatic check is part of the initiative process
Source: Standing Oders of Parliament.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:45:59 UTC
DD57 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
d. Legislature
Source: Standing Orders of Parliament.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:46:45 UTC
DD58 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
a. After its registration, before the collection of signatures
Source: 1992 constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:47:59 UTC
DD59 Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens’ initiative?
d. Legislature
Comments: A private member's bill is spnorsored by a member of Parliament.
Source: Standing orders of Parliament.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:49:37 UTC
DD60 At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
a. After the initiative is initially registered
Comments: Work is done on it in Parliament before it is passed.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:51:02 UTC
DD61 What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
a. Only the alternative proposal is qualified for the ballot
Source: Parliamentary procedures.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:52:15 UTC
DD62 When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
f. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:53:03 UTC
DD63 Who decides the final ballot text?
c. Legislature
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:54:01 UTC
DD64 Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
a. Within a certain time limit (specify)
Comments: A peroid of six months.
Source: Article 290(3) of the 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:55:50 UTC
DD65 Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
k. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:57:04 UTC
DD66 What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
g. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:58:06 UTC
DD67 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to the time period in which an individual/position can be recalled?
Comments: Not Applicable at the national level.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 19:59:14 UTC
DD68 If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
d. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 20:00:04 UTC
DD69 When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
c. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution
Last updated: 2005-12-15 20:00:38 UTC
DD70 If a separate ballot to replace an individual who has been recalled takes place, how soon after the recall ballot is it held?
Comments: Not Applicable.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 20:01:18 UTC
DD71 Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
c. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 20:01:45 UTC
DD72 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Comments: This is not applicable in Ghana.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 20:02:56 UTC
DD73 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Comments: Not Applicable in Ghana.
Source: 1992 Constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 20:04:20 UTC
DD74 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a citizens' initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Comments: Not Applicable.
Source: 1992 constitution.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 20:32:44 UTC
DD75 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an agenda initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
Comments: Not Aplicable
Source: 1992 Const.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 20:33:43 UTC
DD76 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
c. Not applicable
Source: 1992 Const.
Last updated: 2005-12-15 20:34:19 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution Electoral Commission of Ghana
b. Full Address P.O. Box M. 214, Accra Ghana
c. Telephone 233.21.22.84.21
d. Facsimile 233.21.66.88.04
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Dr. K. AFARI-GYAN, Chairman
Source: International Directory of Election Offices (IFES 1996)
Last updated: 2005-07-02 17:28:36 UTC
EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
a. National level
b. Regional level
c. Local level
d. Other kinds of elections (church, union, etc.) Please specify.
Comments: The Election Commission is in charge of governmental elections as well as: "conduct of election of the officrers of certain statutory boides, including: the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Veterans Association of Ghana (VAG), the Ghana medical and Dental Association, the House of Chiefs, and the District Assemblies."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 17:28:53 UTC
EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:
a. The President
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 17:30:56 UTC
EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
a. For the election period only
Comments: "Ghana's electoral system has the following basic characteristics: ...a permanent electoral commission"
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 17:35:48 UTC
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
a. Head of State is the Head of Government
b. Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: The President is elected by popular vote every four years for a four year term.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 16:42:13 UTC
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
a. Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: The President is the head of State and Head of Govertnment.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana(Article 57 section 1)
Last updated: 2005-07-01 16:48:54 UTC
ES03 Does the country have a president?
a. Yes
Comments: The president of the Country is both the head of state and head of Government.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghan (Article 57 )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 16:52:21 UTC
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
a. One chamber
Comments: The national legislature consists of one chamber and is known as Parliament.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 93 Section 1 )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 16:59:01 UTC
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
a. Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: Members of Parliament are elected every four years during the general elections.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:12:04 UTC
ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
k. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments: The country has only one Chamber.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 93 Section 2)
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:14:30 UTC
ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
h. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:17:16 UTC
ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
b. Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: Each Member of Parliament is a representative of a Constituency in the country as demarcated by the Electoral Commisssion.
Source: The Constitution of the Republi of Ghana ( Article 47)
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:23:18 UTC
ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
d. Not applicable
Comments: Ghana has only one Chamber
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana ( Article 93 )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:24:40 UTC
ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No
Comments: The basis for the demarcation of constituencies is such that the number of inhabitants are as nearly equal to the population quota.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 47 Section 3 )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:29:04 UTC
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
e. Not applicable Seats in Parliament are based on Constituencies.
Comments: No such special reservations are in Parliament, each menber represents a Constituency.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 47 Section 1 )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:33:41 UTC
ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
c. The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments: Ghana has only one Chamber
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana( Article 93 )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:35:10 UTC
ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
e. Not applicable Not Applicable
Comments: Ghana has only one chamber.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 93 )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:36:46 UTC
ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
c. Not applicable
Comments: Seats are won by popular vote, maintaining that a simple majority will ensure election."
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:41:09 UTC
ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Comments: Ghana has only one chamber.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana ( Article 93 )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:42:14 UTC
ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
c. Not applicable
Comments: see ES12, same as other candidates.
Source: No specific legislation provides alternative information regarding independent candidates.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:53:21 UTC
ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Comments: Same as ES16
Source: Same as ES16
Last updated: 2005-07-01 17:54:18 UTC
ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
a. At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: Elections are held every four years.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 113 Section 1 )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 18:04:55 UTC
ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
e. Not applicable
Comments: Same as ES12
Source: Same as ES12
Last updated: 2005-07-01 18:06:43 UTC
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
a. Part of Constitution
Comments: Chapter Seven, Representation of the People , enacted in 1993.
Source: Constitution to the Republic of Ghana
Last updated: 2005-07-01 18:11:17 UTC
LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
b. January 1990- December 1999
Comments: January 1993
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana
Last updated: 2005-07-01 18:11:49 UTC
LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections
c. Local elections
d. Referendums
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 45 Section (c) )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 18:14:42 UTC
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary
Comments: No law prosecutes any citizen who is eighteen years and above and of sound mind who does not vote.
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 42)
Last updated: 2005-07-01 18:16:25 UTC
LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
a. National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: District Assembly elections are held six months apart from parliamentary elections.
Source: The Local Government Act, Act 462 1993 The District Assembly Elections Act, Act 473.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 18:21:34 UTC
LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
a. Judiciary
b. EMB
Source: The constitution of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 18:27:41 UTC
LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
c. Judiciary
e. Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Chief Justice and the Electoral Commission Does appoint people to a tribunal.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Article 48 Clause (1) )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 18:30:03 UTC
LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
a. Candidates
b. Parties
c. Voters
Last updated: 2005-07-01 19:32:42 UTC
LF10 What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
e. Special Electoral Tribunal
Comments: This tribunal consists of three persons apointed by the Cheif Justice and the Electoral Commission.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana ( Article 48 Clause (1) )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 19:46:05 UTC
Media and Elections
ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: aFREDA PEPRAH
b. Job Title: RESEARCH ASSISTANT
c. Organisation: GHANA CENTER FOR DEMOCRATIC DEVELOPMENT
d. Contact Address: P. O. BOX LG404 LEGON, ACCRA
e. Telephone: 233 -21 -784293/784294
f. Facsimile: 233 -21 -763028
g. Email: afuaoforiwa@yahoo.com
Comments: The National Media Commission is the proper authority to handle most interaction with the Media during election time.
Last updated: 2005-10-14 14:16:50 UTC
ME02 Which of the following types of radio stations are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
b. Government owned
c. Privately owned
Comments: See ME03, difficult to answer because there is no specific legislation that defines the answer to this question.
Last updated: 2005-10-14 13:30:19 UTC
ME03 Which of the following types of television stations are present at a national level in your country?
a. Publicly owned
b. Government owned
c. Privately owned
Comments: 'The public must be given access to the ranger of opinions and views held by the political and other legitimate groups as indicated in article 163 of the Constitution.
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana. pages 54-55.
Last updated: 2005-10-14 13:31:01 UTC
ME04 Which of the following types of daily and weekly newspapers are present at a national level in your country?
b. Government owned
c. Privately owned
d. Owned by political parties
Comments: (11) "The state shall provide fair opportunity to all political parties to present their programmes to the public by ensuring equal access to the state-owned media.'
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 55 (11)]
Last updated: 2005-10-14 13:33:28 UTC
ME05 Which of the following do you believe best describes the print media situation at the national level in your country?
c. Competition exists between government newspaper and at least one private newspaper
Source: Public Domain
Last updated: 2005-10-14 13:34:41 UTC
ME06 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private radio stations?
a. Over 60%
Comments: Each regional Capital has FM stations and this is accessisble at the districh levels.
Source: Pblic Domain.
Last updated: 2005-10-14 13:49:17 UTC
ME08 What proportion of the population can receive transmissions of the national level programming of private television stations?
a. Over 60%
Comments: (12) "All presidential candidates shall be given the same amount of time and space on the state-owned media to present their programmes to the people."There are also private
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 55 (12)
Last updated: 2005-10-14 14:05:37 UTC
ME09 In your opinion, which of the following types of media in your country have a public reputation for being independent?
a. Public radio
Comments: a. "GTV shall offer 10 minutes of airtime per week to each presidential candidate (for two months). GTV shall offer 10 minutes per week per each political party contesting the election (for two months.)" b. "Where there is competition for limited advertising time or space' fari practices as enjoined by the Constitution should be appointed."
Source: a. Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana. b. Constitution of the Republic of Ghana
Last updated: 2005-10-14 14:06:09 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Signature requirement (specify requirement)
b. Deposit requirement (specify amount)
Comments: "Must be supported by 20 registered voters resident in the constituency where he or she seeks election. The candidate must pay a deposit of two hundred thousand cedis."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:04:51 UTC
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
g. Not applicable
Comments: Ghana has no second chamber.
Source: the constitution of the Republic of Ghana.Article 93
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:10:41 UTC
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: "A parliamentary candidate must be at least 21 years of age..." A candidate must also have full voting rights.
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:11:18 UTC
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
k. Not applicable
Comments: Same as PC 02
Source: Same as PC 02
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:13:29 UTC
PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
a. Age
Comments: "A presidential candidate must be at least 40 years of age..."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana. The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, Article 62.
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:58:14 UTC
PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
o. Other
Comments: Must have full voting rights
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana Article 94
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:42:23 UTC
PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
p. Other
Comments: Must have full voting rights
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana Article 62.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:47:56 UTC
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
e. In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments: "A candidate may stand for election either on the ticket of a political party...or as an independent candidate..."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:48:33 UTC
PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: Same as PCO1
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:48:53 UTC
PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: Same as PC05
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:51:06 UTC
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
c. Indirect
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:58:14 UTC
PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
e. Not Applicable
Comments: Same as PC13
Last updated: 2005-07-02 17:06:55 UTC
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
a. Equal funding, regardless of size and previous performance
Comments: a) Applies only to free media access.
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:58:14 UTC
PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
e. Not Applicable
Comments: Same as PC13 Debate on Party Financing is on going.
Last updated: 2006-11-20 13:58:14 UTC
PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes
Comments: "Only a citizen of Ghana may make a contribution or donation to a political party registered in Ghana."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana article 55.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 17:15:47 UTC
PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
d. Not Applicable
Comments: Contribution could be mader any time.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, Article 55.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 17:16:57 UTC
PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of party contributions received
b. Public disclosure of party expenditure
c. Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources
Comments: " (14) Political parties shall be required by law- (a) to declare to the public their revenues and assets and the sources of those revenues and assests and (b) to publich to the public annually their audited accounts. (15) Only a citizen of Ghana may make a contribution or donation to a political party registered in Ghana."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 55 (14a, b & 15)]
Last updated: 2005-07-02 17:17:44 UTC
PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
j. Not applicable
Comments: This is included in the party's expenditure.
Source: The constitution of the Republic of Ghana, Article 55 Clause (14) (15)
Last updated: 2005-07-02 17:21:27 UTC
PC21 Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
d. Other
Comments: Parliament. " (17) subject to the provisions of this Chapter, Parliament shall by law regulate the establishment and functioning of political parties."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 55 (17)]
Last updated: 2005-07-02 17:24:18 UTC
Vote Counting
VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
d. Categorical (only one mark allowed)
f. Same ballot papers used nationwide
h. Party symbols in color
j. Candidate photos in color
n. Random listing (lottery)
Source: Sample ballot from the 1996 Legislative Elections.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:28:41 UTC
VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
s. Not applicable
Comments: Ghana has only one chamber
Source: the Contitution of the Republic of Ghana article 93
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:30:22 UTC
VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed)
d. Categorical (only possible to make one mark)
f. Same ballot papers used nation-wide
h. Party symbols in color
j. Candidate photos in color
n. Random listing (lottery)
Source: Sample ballot from the 1996 Legislative Elections.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:30:58 UTC
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
a. At the polling stations
Comments: "The counting of votes takes place at each polling station..."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:31:57 UTC
VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?
a. Separate ballots for different elections
b. Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box
c. Tally of voters who voted
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:32:25 UTC
VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
a. Polling centre (several polling stations in same building)
Comments: "...the Presiding Officer of each polling station in the constituency sends his or her results form to the Returning Officer at the constituency center...Thereafter, the Returning Officer publicly announces the results, declares the winner (elected in a parliamentary race), and posts a copy of the results at a conspicuous place at the centre..."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:32:53 UTC
VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
e. Other
Comments: Constituency level
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana Article 47 Clause (1)
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:34:53 UTC
VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
a. Physically transported
b. By telephone
c. By fax
e. Radio
Comments: "When the District Electoral Officer receives the results from teh Returning Officer, he or she immediately communicates them to the Regional Office of the Commission by telephone, radio, or by driving to the regional capital."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana. page 33.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:35:50 UTC
VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
a. Ballots
f. Certificate of result
g. Ballot boxes
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:43:53 UTC
VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
c. Signatures on sealed envelopes
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:44:16 UTC
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
d. By request
Comments: "A candidate is also permitted to appoint one agent to represent him or her at each poling station...According to the election law, the agent must observe the counting of votes after the close of the poll and may ask for a re-count if he or she is not satisfied with the initial count."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana. Pages 26-27
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:44:34 UTC
VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:45:06 UTC
VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
b. An individual candidate
e. International observers
Comments: According to election law, an agent of the candidate may ask for a re-count if he or she is not satisfied with the initial countl.
Source: Elections in Ghana Part I. page 27.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:45:26 UTC
VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
c. Local Election Management body
Comments: "...where a controversy over the count at a specific polling station could not be resoved there, the Returning Officer is required to (re)count the votes or otherwise resove the controversy at the constituency center in the presecne of the candidates agents"
Source: Elections in Ghana 1996. Part I. page 32.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:46:09 UTC
VC15 Are preliminary results announced?
a. Yes
Comments: This done at the polling station and local media stations do anounce as well.
Source: Public knowledge.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:48:01 UTC
VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
d. Not applicable After counting
Comments: After counting is done
Source: Public Knowledge.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 13:49:35 UTC
VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
a. Yes
Comments: After a declaration has ben signed by Agents of Parties and candidates, the results are then declared.
Source: The constitution of the Republic of Ghana Article 49 clause (3)
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:01:12 UTC
VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
b. days:
Comments: There is no legally mandated date or time after polls close to announce an official winner of an election, though in the 1996 elections, the official results were announced four days after the close of the polls.Due to improved information technology results are announced much faster.
Source: Commonwealth Observer Report page 26.
Last updated: 2005-07-02 14:02:39 UTC
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
a. National Electoral Management Body
b. Regional Electoral Management Bodies
c. Local/County Electoral Management Bodies
d. National Government
e. Regional Governments
f. Local Governments
g. NGOs/ Civic Organizations
h. Political parties/ candidates
i. Media
j. Religious Institutions
Comments: The Electoral Commission and other bodies educate the electorate on how to vote before every public elction.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana ( Article 45 Clause (d) )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 19:55:14 UTC
VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
b. Election time only
Comments: Various publicatoins, news articles, and information indicates that voter education programs are concentrated in the six months prior to a major election.
Source: Various
Last updated: 2005-07-01 19:56:02 UTC
VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
b. Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 19:56:55 UTC
VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
a. Poster/ Billboard campaigns
b. Media advertisement
e. Public meetings
Source: Public Knowledge
Last updated: 2005-07-01 19:57:51 UTC
Voting Operations
VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
a. Yes
Comments: Election Official Manual for the 1996 elections
Source: ACE Project sample materials
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:08:33 UTC
VO03 Where can electors vote?
h. By proxy
Comments: "A registered voter may appoint somebody to vote on his or her behalf by completing a form designed for that purpose."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:09:05 UTC
VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
b. Citizens residing outside the country
Comments: "...a voter who can show proof that he or she will be absent from the country on election day..." may vote by proxy.
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:09:39 UTC
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
d. By proxy
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:10:02 UTC
VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
b. Yes
Comments: "There are two categories of special voters. One is made up of security personnel and election officials who will be on election duty outside their constituencies on the day of the poll. They are allowed to vote at their constituency center on a day set aside for the purpose before election day."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:10:29 UTC
VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
a. At special advance polling centers
Comments: "There are two categories of special voters. One is made up of security personnel and election officials who will be on election duty outside their constituencies on the day of the poll. They are allowed to vote at their constituency center on a day set aside for the purpose before election day."
Source: Elections 1996 in Ghana (part I); Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Kwasi Badu and John Larvie in co-operation with the Electoral Commission of the Republic of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:11:00 UTC
VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
f. Other
Comments: the Security Personel and #Electoral Commission Staff.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:12:20 UTC
VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:13:07 UTC
VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:13:58 UTC
Voter Registration
VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
c. 18
Comments: Legal voting age is 18 years.
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Artcle 42 )
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:01:55 UTC
VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship
Comments: Every Citizen of Ghana of eighteen years of age
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 42]
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:02:41 UTC
VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
d. Mental disability
Comments: "...and of sound mind has the right to vote..."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 42]
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:03:09 UTC
VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
d. Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: "The Electoral Commission shall have the following functions- to compile the register of voters and revise it at such periods as may be determined by law."
Source: Constitution of the Republic of Ghana [Article 45 a]
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:03:44 UTC
VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?
b. Voters register
Comments: Registration is opened to polling stations prior to the election and updated before elections to either include persons reaching voting status or to remove indidviduals deceased or whose voting rights have been stripped from them.
Source: Status Report on Preparations for the 1996 Presidential and Legislative Elections by the Electoral Commission of Ghana.
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:04:50 UTC
VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?
d. During the election period
Comments: Every source of information that I have come across leads me to believe that the voter register is updated and focused upon just prior to the presidential and parliamentary elections.
Source: Various
Last updated: 2005-07-01 20:05:47 UTC
May 20, 2008 07:19 AM
