NDC Guidelines for the Election of Party Executives at all Levels (2026), specifically under Section 7.0 – Voting, indicate that the election of branch executives shall be conducted by raising of hands. While these guidelines were designed to safeguard internal democracy, fairness, and credibility, the adoption of an open voting system by show of hands poses serious challenges and threatens the integrity of the electoral process.
In a competitive election, voting by show of hands openly exposes members’ choices, making it easy for contestants and their supporters to identify who voted for or against them. This creates fertile ground for intimidation, victimization, resentment, and possible reprisals whether immediate or in the future. Such an environment is unhealthy for party unity and undermines internal democracy.
An open voting system discourages free and honest choice. Members may feel pressured to align with perceived majority opinions, influential figures, or dominant factions simply to avoid being singled out. As a result, the outcome of such an election may reflect fear, pressure, or conformity rather than the true will of party members.
In modern democratic practice considering time, political maturity, and increasing political awareness the secret ballot remains the most credible and acceptable method of voting. It guarantees voter privacy, promotes fairness, and ensures that members can vote according to conscience without fear of exposure or retaliation. The secret ballot also strengthens confidence in electoral outcomes, minimizes post-election tension, and fosters unity after the process.
If the objective of the election is legitimacy, transparency, and long-term cohesion, then the secret ballot system is not optional—it is essential. Any electoral process that exposes voters’ choices undermines democratic principles and risks avoidable conflict before, during, and after the election.
In light of the above, I am calling on the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party, as a matter of urgency, to review this provision in the 2026 Guidelines and reconsider the use of voting by raising of hands for branch executive elections. A timely intervention by the NEC will help protect internal democracy, preserve party unity, and reinforce confidence in the party’s electoral processes.
Mr. Evans Nii-Boye
Former Director of Elections.
Cape Coast North Constituency
