Election Watch Ghana has underscored the need for newly appointed Deputy Electoral Commissioners to serve with unwavering integrity, while advocating for constitutional and legal reforms to strengthen the independence, impartiality, and credibility of the Electoral Commission of Ghana.
The demand follows the recent appointment and inauguration of Dr Joseph Kwaku Asamoah and Emelia Afi Agbenyo as Deputy Chairpersons of the commission.
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the Convener for the group, Mark Ewusi Arkoh, posited that there is an urgent necessity for a more transparent and merit-based appointment process for EC officials. He emphasised the critical role of independence, expertise, and public confidence in safeguarding Ghana’s democratic integrity.
The appointment of Emelia Afi Agbenyo as Deputy Chairperson has generated mixed reactions across the political spectrum. The opposition New Patriotic Party has called for her immediate withdrawal, citing her perceived affiliation with the ruling government. Conversely, the National Democratic Congress has defended the appointment, with senior officials arguing that it balances the scales given that several existing appointees at the EC are affiliated with the NPP.
Describing the ongoing political bickering as unfortunate, Mr Arkoh highlighted a glaring legal lacuna regarding whether politically exposed persons should be eligible for appointment to the EC. He argued that appointing politically exposed individuals inherently raises concerns about the commission’s integrity.
He stressed that the new officials must execute their duties without fear, favour, or political interference, maintaining that their primary allegiance remains to the Constitution and the Ghanaian people.
“There is a gap we ought to address. However, before we address the gap, those appointed to serve at the EC have a responsibility, and that responsibility is to serve the Constitution of this country and the people, not to serve the interest of the appointer or a political party. Because of the perceived affiliation of Emelia to the NDC, there will be doubts. That is why we have submitted proposals to revise how EC Chairpersons are appointed,” he stated.
In his engagement with host Kwabena Agyapong, Mr Arkoh asserted that the nation requires an Electoral Commission that is independent in its decisions, competent in its operations, innovative in its systems, and accountable to the citizenry.
To resolve these recurring challenges, he recommended that nominees for the positions of EC Chairperson and the two Deputies be subjected to parliamentary vetting, drawing a direct parallel to the rigorous vetting process undertaken by nominees for the Supreme Court.
He lamented that the country has experienced far too many instances where EC appointees are perceived as political partisans, warning that such trends remain detrimental to the health of Ghana’s democracy.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana