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ACCRA, GHANA —Ghanaians headed to the polls Saturday in their ninth democratic election since 1992, with voters queuing as early as dawn to make their voices heard.
Despite minor setbacks, including water-damaged materials and initial concerns about transparency, the Electoral Commission assured the public of a credible process. Analysts say Ghana's track record and recent improvements will uphold its reputation as a democratic leader in the region.
At Teshie Central Mosque in Accra, voters began queuing as early as 5 a.m., eager to cast ballots in Ghana's highly anticipated presidential and parliamentary elections. For first-time voter Enabeen Berrick, participating was a personal choice.
"I believe that my vote can make a change, so I would like to at least put something on the ballot paper," said Enabeen Berrick.
She did just that, expressing confidence in the electoral process.
"It went very smoothly, but the timing was off," she said.
Some election materials at her polling station were damaged by water, causing delays and raising doubts for voters such as Kenneth Asamoah.
"Sorry, I don't understand how water entered that box," he said. "I am worried, to be frank, I am very worried."
Asamoah also criticized the Electoral Commission's - known as ECs - initial restrictions on media coverage and last-minute ballot recalls.
"We heard about limited media houses who are supposed to report the election, which we have never heard in the past, and some viral videos we saw about the EC people. So, me, I don't trust them," he said.
Despite these concerns, analysts argue that Ghana remains a beacon of stability in a year when several African elections have been marred by violence, fraud, and controversy.
Political analyst Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante notes that Ghana's electoral system has consistently proven its resilience.
"The posture of the Electoral Commission and the doubts people have, have been with us since time immemorial," said the analyst. "It is not a new phenomenon, but every time, we rise above reproach."
To enhance transparency, the EC has accredited about 10,000 journalists and granted full access by the media to the National Collation Center for the first time, said Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa.
"This is a historic moment in our country, as this is the first time we are opening up our collation center at the national level to our media partners," said Mensa.
The stakes are high for Ghana's ninth successive democratic election since transitioning from military rule in 1992. Power has alternated equally - 16 years each - between the New Patriotic Party and the National Democratic Congress, making this a highly competitive contest between former President John Mahama of the NDC and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP.
Observers say Ghana's election will once again set a positive example for the region, proving that democracy can thrive in Africa, even amid challenges.