The Electoral Commission (EC) has instructed its regional directors to restrict the number of media houses allowed into constituency and regional collation centers during the upcoming general elections.

This directive, outlined in an internal memo titled ‘Accreditation for Media Houses’ dated November 25 and signed by the EC’s Deputy Chairman for Operations, Samuel Tettey, specifies the media accreditation guidelines. At the constituency level, only eight media houses will be permitted: three television stations (two personnel each) and five radio stations (one person each). At the regional collation centers, the number increases to 12 media houses: five television stations (two personnel each) and seven radio stations (one person each).

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The decision has sparked mixed reactions from stakeholders. Defending the move during an interview with Accra-based Citi FM on Tuesday, November 26, Dr. Bossman Asare, the EC’s Deputy Chairman for Corporate Services, explained that the measure is intended to reduce congestion and facilitate a smooth collation process.

“If you don’t carefully manage the collation centers, you may encounter significant challenges. The Commission believes this arrangement will ensure a smooth collation process at both the constituency and regional levels,” he said.