The independence and credibility of the EC will continue to suffer, so long as some members of the ruling party, continue to serve as the mouthpiece of the Commission and put up even better defense of the EC than the EC itself.
Sometimes, some ruling party officials appear to understand the issues of the EC better than the EC itself. But the EC is capable of defending itself. It has the resources to recruit top-notched communicators to staff it’s Public Affairs Unit. It must therefore actively dissociate itself from the defense of ruling party officials. Failure to do this, may connote a tacit approval of the bogus perception that, ECs are always in bed with ruling parties.
Sitting passively to allow some top ruling party officials, to announce an EC plan ahead of time, is suicidal in the quest to protect institutional independence. Leaving the defense of positions taken to the ruling party, and coming out sparingly to speak to the issues, will always create the impression in the minds of the opposition that the business of the Commission, is being run by the ruling party. Even though this may not be so, the EC has fueled this perception by its near dormancy in getting experienced “offensive, but conciliatory communicators” to do its public relations job.
The Commission must go for erudite people, who have command over the issues, and have the kind of public affability, as well as the persona that isn’t repulsive to public acceptance. Directors of Election must focus on their mandate, and leave the communication to well trained communicators, in order to sooth polarization, rather than worsening it.
The mandate of the ruling party, is to govern to better the lots of Ghanaians. Such mandate, doesn’t include partisan defense of independent institutions.
The opposition must also know that the role of the opposition isn’t to always oppose. Since 1992, the opposition has always opposed the EC and perceived its moves with suspicion. This is not too helpful. The opposition must tone down on its suspicion and focus on other key variables of electoral success, particularly, VIGILANCE, funding, and the recruitment of very committed people, who will help the party advance its interest in the electioneering campaign.
To win the 2020 elections, the ruling party must focus on its mandate and govern not only to redeem its promises, but to effectively communicate its achievements in a manner that resonates tangibly with the people. The EC has come of age and must be allowed to fight its own battles. The opposition must be constructive in its criticisms and be vigilant in participating in all processes leading to the elections. The EC must not only tout its mandate and independence when there is disagreement. It must work hard to appear a neutral arbiter and strive hard to build consensus, even in the face of intransigence.
The whole world is watching us and we must not disappoint them before, during and after our 2020 elections.
