introduction The fundamental principle underlying Ghana's Electoral System is for every adult citizen to participate in the election of her or his representative. Consequently, the Electoral Commission has a unique place in Ghanaian democracy as it enables the citizens to execute their rights. The Basic Characteristics Of Ghana's Electoral System Ghana's electoral system has the following basic characteristics: · Universal adult suffrage for citizens; · Official registration of voters; · Non-compulsory registration or voting; · Secret ballot; · Use of Identity Card issued by the Electoral Commission to establish voter's identity and to prevent impersonation; · Registration of political parties as corporate bodies; · Political parties are not allowed to sponsor candidates for elections to District Assemblies and lower local government units; · National and Local elections alternate at two year intervals · Presidential election where the winner requires more than fifty percent (50%) of the valid votes cast; · Parliamentary and local elections on the basis of the first-past-the post; · A run-off election in case no winner emerges on the first ballot; · No minimum voter turn-out required for presidential/parliamentary elections; · Use of indelible ink(electoral stain) to prevent multiple voting · A permanent Electoral Commission; Independence of the Commission In a bid to establish the independence and autonomy of the Commission, Article 46 of the 1992 Constitution requires that in performing its functions, the Electoral Commission“shall not be subject to the direction or control of any person or authority”. In addition, the Chairman has permanent tenure commensurate with the conditions of service as judges of the Appeal Court, whilst his two deputies enjoy those of High Court judges. The expenses of the Commission are charged directly on the Consolidated Fund of the Republic. 2