The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) has raised concerns about the current state of Ghana’s democracy, warning that the country is at a crossroads.

In a statement released on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, and signed by GFL Secretary General Abraham Koomson emphasised the importance of ensuring a free, fair, and transparent electoral process ahead of the December 7, general elections.

"Ghana's democratic dispensation is at a crossroads.

We either join failed states in the democratic system of governance or continue to stand as a beacon of hope for African democratic systems," Koomson stated.

He warned that disputed elections across the continent have frequently led to violence, and Ghana risks heading down a "dangerous path towards anarchy" due to recent actions and public statements made by some officials at the Electoral Commission (EC) toward opposition parties.

To prevent potential unrest, the GFL has joined other groups in calling for an independent forensic audit of the voter register and a re-exhibition of the register before the elections.

Mr Koomson stressed that such an audit is crucial to restoring public confidence in the electoral process.

"It is a national call for action to restore public confidence in the electoral process.

It is dangerous and grounds for disaster if elections are conducted on the basis of a disputed voter's register," he said.

As a representative of Ghanaian workers, the GFL expressed its determination to not remain passive in the face of what it sees as a dangerous situation.

Mr Koomson emphasised the need for transparency, stating that without an independent forensic audit, the authenticity of the voter register cannot be guaranteed, which could lead to electoral disputes and undermine the integrity of the elections.

"We therefore urge the Electoral Commission to allow for independent forensic auditing to ensure that the register is accurate and credible," Mr Koomson reiterated.

The GFL also called for a re-exhibition of the voter register following the audit, allowing the general public to verify their registration details.

The Federation appealed to religious leaders, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, and development partners to join in pressuring the Electoral Commission to accept the call for independent auditing.

"We believe that these measures are essential in ensuring that the elections are free, fair, and transparent," Mr Koomson stated, urging all stakeholders to support the initiative and ensure the credibility of the electoral process.

The GFL also called for public restraint, urging the Electoral Commission to demonstrate fairness throughout the electoral process.

"We urge the general public to exercise restraint while we call on the Electoral Commission to exhibit fairness to all," Mr Koomson concluded, stressing the importance of cooperation among all democratic forces to guarantee a transparent election that reflects the will of the people.