Accra:Newly appointed Deputy Electoral Commissioners in Ghana have been urged to prioritize integrity and serve the nation, rather than political parties, as part of ongoing advocacy for constitutional and legal reforms aimed at enhancing the independence and credibility of the Electoral Commission of Ghana.
According to Ghana Web, the recent appointments of Dr. Joseph Kwaku Asamoah and Emelia Afi Agbenyo as Deputy Chairpersons have sparked discussions about the need for a transparent and merit-based appointment process. Mark Ewusi Arkoh, a convener for a civic group, emphasized the necessity of independence, expertise, and public confidence in maintaining the nation's democratic integrity during an interview on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM.
The appointment of Emelia Afi Agbenyo has been particularly contentious, with the opposition New Patriotic Party calling for her withdrawal due to her perceived affiliation with the ruling government. Conversely, the National Democratic Congress has supported her appointment, arguing it provides a balance given the affiliations of other Electoral Commission appointees.
Arkoh criticized the political tensions surrounding these appointments and pointed out a legal gap concerning the eligibility of politically exposed persons for the Electoral Commission. He emphasized that the new deputies must perform their duties impartially, with their loyalty to the Constitution and the people of Ghana.
He further argued for reforms in the appointment process, suggesting that nominees for Electoral Commission positions should undergo a parliamentary vetting process, similar to that of Supreme Court nominees, to prevent perceptions of political bias and ensure the health of Ghana's democracy.