The call for the removal of Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, Jean Mensa, and her two deputies has gained momentum with the vocal support of Hopeson Adorye, Head of Operations for the Movement for Change. Adorye has publicly endorsed a petition filed with President John Dramani Mahama, accusing the EC leadership of a litany of offenses, including constitutional violations, incompetence, bias, and actions that have eroded public trust in the electoral system. This petition, submitted by Ofosu-Appiah Daniel, specifically targets Mensa, Dr. Bossman Asare (Deputy Chairperson in charge of Corporate Affairs), Samuel Tettey (Deputy Chairperson in charge of Operations), and Dr. Peter Appiahene, a member of the Commission’s board. The petition’s core argument rests on Article 146 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which provides a mechanism for removing public officials for misconduct.
Adorye’s endorsement amplifies the concerns raised in the petition, alleging that Jean Mensa has displayed a pattern of unprofessional conduct in managing electoral processes. He points to the 2024 elections as a prime example, suggesting that Mensa’s actions could have triggered national instability had former Vice President Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia not conceded defeat early. This underscores the critical role of the EC in maintaining a peaceful democratic transition. Adorye emphasizes that the impartiality of the EC Chairperson is paramount to ensuring free and fair elections, a cornerstone of a stable democracy. He urges President Mahama to prioritize the appointment of a neutral and non-partisan individual to lead the EC, thereby restoring public confidence in the integrity of the electoral process.
Central to Adorye’s argument is the incident at Ablekuma North, which he cites as clear evidence of Mensa’s alleged affiliation with the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He criticizes Mensa’s intervention in the Ablekuma North election results collation process, claiming that it disrupted the established procedure, which mandates collation and declaration at the district level. Adorye contends that Mensa’s interference constituted an unwarranted intrusion into government business, further bolstering the accusations of bias leveled against her. This incident serves as a focal point in the broader narrative of alleged partisan conduct by the EC leadership, fueling concerns about the fairness and impartiality of electoral processes under their stewardship.
The petition and Adorye’s public endorsement underscore a deep-seated concern regarding the integrity and independence of Ghana’s electoral body. The accusations of bias, incompetence, and constitutional violations paint a picture of an EC leadership potentially undermining the democratic process. This situation highlights the crucial need for a transparent and accountable electoral system to maintain public trust and ensure the legitimacy of election outcomes. The call for President Mahama to appoint a neutral and non-partisan EC Chairperson reflects the desire for an electoral body that operates above political influence, fostering an environment of fairness and impartiality.
Beyond the specific allegations against Mensa and her deputies, the controversy underscores the broader importance of independent electoral institutions in a democratic society. A credible and impartial electoral body is essential for upholding the principles of free and fair elections, ensuring that the will of the people is accurately reflected in election outcomes. The controversy surrounding Ghana’s EC serves as a reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions and the constant vigilance required to safeguard their integrity against undue political influence. The call for a neutral and non-partisan EC Chairperson is not merely a procedural matter but a fundamental issue that goes to the heart of Ghana’s democratic future.
The unfolding situation surrounding Ghana’s EC highlights the broader challenges faced by democracies in maintaining the integrity of their electoral processes. Accusations of bias and partisanship erode public trust, potentially leading to social unrest and political instability. The call for a neutral and non-partisan EC Chairperson underscores the importance of institutional reforms that prioritize independence and transparency. Strengthening electoral institutions and ensuring their impartiality are critical steps in safeguarding democratic values and promoting peaceful transitions of power. The controversy surrounding Ghana’s EC serves as a valuable case study for other democracies grappling with similar challenges, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and reform to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
