Accra: The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Elections Committee has announced the availability of proxy voting for its National and Regional Executive Elections, set for Monday, June 30, 2025. This initiative aligns with the Association's Election Guidelines and is designed to ensure that no eligible member is disenfranchised due to travel, health challenges, or other legitimate constraints that may prevent in-person voting.
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According to Ghana News Agency, any paid-up member of the GJA in good standing who is unable to vote in person on Election Day may apply to vote by proxy. Members wishing to vote by proxy must address their requests to the Chairman of the GJA Elections Committee, clearly stating their intention. The deadline for this process is set for the close of day on Monday, June 23, 2025.
Members voting by proxy must nominate proxies who are also paid-up GJA members in good standing. The details of the application should include the full name of the proxy, residential address, Ghana Card number, and contact telephone number. Proxy voters are required to submit the original, triplicate of the complete Proxy Form to the GJA Elections Committee. A duplicate should be given to the proxy to present on polling day, while the triplicate should be retained by the applicant. Election officials have stated that no individual can act as a proxy for more than one member.
Completed forms and relevant details should be submitted to the Elections Committee via [email protected]. Additionally, a secure link will be provided for applicants to access and complete the proxy form. In a related release, the Committee reassured all members and stakeholders that the introduction of proxy voting in the upcoming election was a well-considered step aimed at promoting inclusivity and safeguarding electoral integrity.
Proxy voting is recognized as a standard practice in many democratic systems worldwide, allowing eligible voters to participate even if they cannot be physically present on election day. The Committee emphasized that this process will be conducted with the highest standards of credibility and transparency, adhering to strict guidelines to prevent potential abuse. The Committee encouraged members to set aside any misconceptions, assuring them that proxy voting is a legitimate, fair, and transparent mechanism that upholds democratic principles.
Furthermore, the GJA Elections Committee has completed the balloting of positions for the upcoming national and regional elections. A total of 12 national candidates and 50 regional candidates have been approved to contest various leadership positions across the Association.
