By Christopher Arko
Accra, Oct.24, GNA – The Voters Compass, a groundbreaking initiative by Penplusbytes, has been launched in Accra to improve accountability in governance by systematically tracking political party commitments outlined in their manifestos.
The digital tool will enable voters to assess and compare the key policy areas of different parties, focusing on issues that matter most to them.
Mr. Jerry Sam, the Executive Director of Penplusbytes, stated at the launch of the Voters Compass and Policy Dialogue that the platform was developed in partnership with VoteSwiper, a German civic tech organization, and funded by the German Federal Foreign Office.
He said the platform aimed to provide verified information on political party promises, candidate profiles, and election procedures, and empower Ghanaians to make informed voting decisions in the upcoming 2024 national elections.
Mr. Sam also highlighted the importance of the Voters Compass Political Dialogue, which will be live-streamed to engage those not online in political discussions.
He said the forum was intended to foster open, constructive conversations among political leaders, civil society, and university students, facilitating discussions around manifestos and enabling greater transparency and accountability in governance.
Mr Sam noted that the Voters Compass was in sync with Penplusbytes’ African Elections Project, which has been active since 2008, promoting accountability, transparency, and inclusive governance through interactive discussions on political manifestos.
Madam Sivine Jansen, Deputy German Ambassador to Ghana, was hopeful that the Voters Compass would serve as an educational tool for voters, helping them understand the positions of different parties and candidates, leading to more informed voting decisions.
She emphasised that the platform was user-friendly and aimed to engage the younger generation, who play a crucial role in elections.
During a panel discussion, representatives from various political parties, including the National Democratic Congress (NDC), New Patriotic Party (NPP), and Move for Change, along with Independent Presidential candidate Mr Kofi Koranteng, presented their manifesto programs and visions for the country.
GNA