introduction The mass media are essential to the conduct of democratic elections. A free and fair election is not only about casting a vote in proper conditions, but also about having adequate information about parties, policies, candidates and the election process itself so that voters can make an informed choice. As a matter of fact, the simple guiding principle underlying the role of the media in elections is that without a vibrant media, information on the entire electoral process would be inadequate. The Commission realised the important role the press had to play in the presidential and parliamentary elections of 2008. Indeed the Commission recognized the vital role the media would play in the dissemination of information, with particular reference to its voter education and publicity efforts. It was also mindful of the fact that election news is always hot and that the majority of the people rely on the press as sources of information. It was against this background that the Commission found it necessary to engage the media at all levels and on all fronts in the run-up to the election 2008. No one was oblivious of the fact that if the press failed to play its vital role properly the consequences could be inimical to the smooth running of peaceful and successful elections. Workshops The Commission started engaging the press as early as August 2008 in an attempt to ensure that the press would be properly placed to participate meaningfully in the elections. The Electoral Commission was accordingly invited to participate in a one-day election workshop at the Miklin Hotel in Kumasi organised by the National Media Commission to brainstorm on media and elections coverage. Participants at that workshop underscored the need for the media to do more in terms of their coverage of the Electoral Commission and its activities. The press was advised to report events as they occur and to eschew embellishment and distortion of facts. The media was reminded of the consequences of misrepresentation of facts. Participants at the workshop resolved to improve on both their coverage and presentations on election issues. A firm commitment was made to ensure that the Commission's views were sought on all matters relating to elections before they were put in the public domain. 51