Voter Registration : ELECAM Presents Strides, Prospects

With mounting effervescence recently noticed on the national territory in relation to voter registration, the Director General of Elections, Dr. Erik Essousse was before the press yesterday April 29, 2024 to provide clarifications on what the elections management body is doing to ensure an inclusive participation in the process. After stating the missions of Elections Cameroon (ELECAM), the Director General of Elections noted that they work across the national territory from Monday to Friday (during official working hours) to register people of voting age, and who meet the legally stipulated requirements. He highlighted some of the strategies put in place by ELECAM such as; the use of the social media, proximity campaigns, community radios and collaborating with partners. 
With regards to registration kits being used by the institution, Dr. Erik Essousse explained that they have first-generational kits that were acquired in 2013 and still function effectively. He added that they later acquired second generational kits which unfortunately currently pose some problems. “This explains why we are using the two on the field and our technicians work on their maintenance regularly,” he stated. The elections management expert further explained that the challenges were presented to government and resources given for the acquisition of first generational machines to meet up with the expectations of the population. 
When asked about the slow production of voter cards, the Director General of Elections replied that they have a problem with the printing machine. “The government has also given funds and the machine has already been acquired. It is at the level of the customs and we are negotiating to have it taken to our services for technical installation. We will then effectively produce cards,” he revealed. 
As concerns initiatives by associations and individuals encouraging voter registration, Dr. Erik Essousse said it is a much welcome initiative,...