The President and Flagbearer of the NDC, John Mahama?s call on the Electoral Commission (EC) to allow voters with valid voter ID cards to cast their votes even if the verification machine fails to recognize them does not constitute interference with electoral matters.

President Mahama?s statement was in line with concerns expressed by majority of Ghanaians who feared that they may be disenfranchised due to problems that engulfed the verification machines in various polling stations across the country. When the polls opened today across the country for the Presidential and Parliamentary elections, it did not take long when reports started streaking in from various polling stations that many voters could not cast their votes due to the malfunctioning of verification machines.

Besides, there were series of delays across board in the delivery of electoral materials to polling stations whilst some EC officials also reported late to their polling centers. The situation generated anxiety, tension and anger which resulted in panic.

The NDC is of the opinion that the concern expressed by President Mahama was in line with the general feelings of the voting populace.

The NDC believes that the EC must be supported by all stakeholders in the electoral process in the discharge of their duties for the benefit of all Ghanaians. We, appeal to all Ghanaians affected by these hiccups not be disappointed in the process but heed to the call by the EC to go and honour their civic responsibility by casting their ballots tomorrow.

Signed ? 07/12/12

Kofi Portuphy Director of Election 0243366078