EC Has Not Violated Any Law In Auctioning BVDs — Dr. Serebour Replies IMANI

Dr. Serebour Quaicoe, the Director of Electoral Services at the Electoral Commission (EC), has provided insight into the commission’s rationale behind the auctioning of outdated Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs), amidst calls for investigation from various quarters.

The decision to auction off election-related materials, including BVDs, has prompted scrutiny from policy think tanks and civil society organizations. IMANI Africa, through its Founding President, Franklin Cudjoe, urged the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to probe the EC’s actions, citing concerns over the utilization of national resources.

In response to these concerns, Dr. Quaicoe clarified that the outdated BVDs, procured prior to the 2012 elections, were utilized in the 2019 District Level Elections (DLE) under the current Commission. Despite reservations from the Managers of the Commission’s Biometric Infrastructure regarding the devices’ suitability due to their advanced age, the previous administration had intended to refurbish them for subsequent electoral events.

In an interview with Citi TV, Dr. Quaicoe affirmed that the EC obtained approval from the Finance Ministry to auction the obsolete equipment, including the BVDs, ensuring compliance with legal procedures. The auction process involved the selection of an appropriate auctioneer, with a recycling company in Oyarifa ultimately chosen following a thorough interview process.

“We acquired new BVDs and BVRs post-2020, rendering the older devices obsolete. Following an evaluation conducted by the district valuer, STC, we sought permission from the Ministry of Finance to dispose of the outdated equipment,” Dr. Quaicoe elucidated.

Responding to queries regarding potential breaches of law in the disposal process, Dr. Quaicoe emphasized full compliance with legal protocols, including assessment by state valuers, approval from the finance ministry, and transparent auctioning procedures. He affirmed that all proceeds from the auction were channeled into the Consolidated Fund.

Addressing concerns surrounding the auction process, Dr. Quaicoe expressed confidence in the commission’s adherence to legal requirements. “We’re not worried because we have not committed any offence. The documents are there,” he reassured.

The EC’s clarification comes amidst heightened scrutiny surrounding the disposal of election-related materials, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in electoral processes.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com