TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS IN ELECTORAL REFORMS IN GHANA’S DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE: STAKEHOLDER PERSPECTIVES FROM TAMALE METROPOLIS

Abstract

Even though there has been massive deployment of technological innovations in electoral reforms in Ghana’s democratic governance processes, elections in Ghana are still bedevilled with a myriad of challenges often resulting in stakeholder agitations after elections. The aim of this study is to assess the use of technological innovations in electoral reforms in Ghana’s democratic governance processes especially the perception of the electorate within the Tamale Metropolis. To achieve the set objectives of the study, the mixed methods research approach was adopted. Sampling techniques that were employed during the data collection stage include; cluster, purposive and snowballing. Twenty electoral areas were sampled and from which a sample of four hundred (400) respondents were sampled for the questionnaire interview. In addition, two focus group sessions involving fourteen (14) participants were organised. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS and Excel 2007. However, data from the open questions and focus group were thematically grouped and analysed. Key findings of the study include; the knowledge of the technological innovations the Electoral Commission has been using in electoral reforms, stakeholders embracing the technological innovations, appropriateness of technological innovations, high calibre of temporal staff and the adequate capacity available to the Electoral Commission for the adoption of new technological innovations. The study concluded with a general consensus from the electorate that the deployment of technological innovations has led to improvements in our electoral and governance processes. Some recommendations include increased public education, increased funding for local infrastructure development and improved remuneration of temporal staff to enable the Electoral Commission to continue to conduct free, fair and transparent elections.