The demand for Jean Mensa’s resignation as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has taken center stage in the aftermath of the December 7, 2024, presidential election. Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Special Aide to President-elect John Dramani Mahama and spokesperson for his campaign, has spearheaded this call, accusing Mensa of blatant bias and prejudice towards the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Mogtari’s disappointment stems from what she perceives as the EC’s compromised impartiality during the electoral process, a sentiment shared by many within the NDC. This demand for resignation signifies a deeper concern over the integrity and credibility of the EC, and underscores the need for comprehensive reforms to restore public trust in the electoral system.
Mogtari’s assertion that Mensa “displayed enormous prejudice and bias towards the NDC” encapsulates the core grievance of the opposition party. This perceived bias, according to the NDC, has manifested in various ways throughout the electoral process, ultimately undermining the fairness and transparency of the election. Mogtari’s call for Mensa to “respect herself and leave” reflects the seriousness of these allegations and the depth of the NDC’s conviction that Mensa’s continued presence at the EC is detrimental to the democratic process. The NDC’s firm stance on this issue signals a determination to hold the EC accountable and ensure that future elections are conducted with utmost impartiality.
The accusations of bias against the EC are not new. The NDC has consistently raised concerns about the Commission’s perceived favoritism towards the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), a claim vehemently denied by the EC. However, these concerns have gained significant traction following the December 7 election, with many within the NDC believing that the EC’s actions tilted the scales in favor of the NPP. This perception of unfairness has fueled the demand for Mensa’s resignation, as it is seen as a crucial step towards rebuilding public confidence in the electoral system. The NDC’s relentless pursuit of this issue signifies their commitment to ensuring a level playing field in future elections.
The call for Mensa’s resignation extends beyond simply removing an individual from office. It represents a broader demand for a complete overhaul of the EC, a “reset” as Mogtari puts it, to eliminate any perceived partisan influence within the institution. This signifies the need for a thorough examination of the EC’s structure, processes, and personnel to identify and address any potential biases that may compromise its neutrality. The goal, as envisioned by the NDC, is to create an EC that enjoys the full trust and confidence of all political parties and the general public.
The demand for a “reset” of the EC signifies a deep-seated concern over the perceived erosion of public trust in the electoral process. The NDC’s insistence on removing “all the partisans” within the EC underscores the importance of ensuring that the Commission is truly independent and impartial. This call for reform reflects a broader desire for a more robust and transparent electoral system that guarantees the fairness and integrity of future elections. The NDC’s unwavering focus on this issue highlights their commitment to strengthening Ghana’s democracy and upholding the principles of free and fair elections.
The controversy surrounding the EC and the call for Mensa’s resignation have placed the spotlight firmly on the integrity of Ghana’s electoral system. The NDC’s persistent accusations of bias and their demand for a comprehensive overhaul of the EC demonstrate the critical need for electoral reforms that ensure impartiality and transparency. The future of Ghana’s democracy hinges on the ability of the electoral system to inspire public confidence and guarantee the fairness and credibility of elections. The ongoing debate underscores the importance of addressing these concerns and implementing necessary reforms to safeguard the democratic process and uphold the will of the people.
