The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ayawaso Central constituency has raised concerns about individuals allegedly taking photographs of their ballot papers after casting their votes during the special voting exercise.

According to the NDC, this behaviour was observed among some security personnel participating in the election.

The party claims this practice undermines the secrecy of the ballot and could potentially influence the integrity of the process.

Speaking to JoyNews, Harry Otu, the NDC Chairman for Ayawaso Central said "I was seated afar, observing the process, and most of them voting Number 1, any moment they are voting, they vote and take pictures with their votes that they've cast."

He said he drew the attention of the EC officials to the matter and expects something to be done about it.

"So I went to report to the EC official. And most of them, the police officers, are those doing those things. So when I complained to them, I insisted that they delete the pictures that they've taken. And one of the agents, the NPP agents, got an idea [and] started shouting. But because we don't want any chaos here, I just had to go and let the EC take charge of whatever process they are going through,” he recounted.

The NDC has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to address the issue immediately and ensure the integrity of the voting process is maintained.

The party stressed the importance of upholding election rules, including the prohibition of photographing ballots, to protect the sanctity of the exercise.

Thousands of security personnel, journalists, emergency service staff and EC officials among others are taking part in the special voting exercise in 14 out of 16 regions.

The two other regions, Eastern and Western will have their special voting on Thursday, December 5, following a ballot paper mishap that has compelled the Electoral Commission to order a recall and a reprinting of ballot papers for the two regions.

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