Election Watch Ghana has accused President Akufo-Addo of compromising the Electoral Commission (EC) ahead of the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections. The Civil Society Organization claims the EC has always been influenced by the Executive, benefiting both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Mark Ewusi Arkoh, a leading member of Election Watch Ghana, questioned the lack of an independent EC. “Why can’t we have an EC that organizes free, fair, credible, and transparent elections without executive interference?” he asked.
Arkoh pointed to specific appointments under the NPP administration as evidence of the EC’s compromised status. “When the President appoints party members to the EC, how can opposition parties trust the electoral process?” he said.
Arkoh criticized President Akufo-Addo’s appointment of Dr. Peter Appiahene and Francis Bossman to the EC, citing their political affiliations. “Dr. Appiahene is a known NPP communicator in the Bono Region, and Mr. Bossman is a TESCON patron. Their appointments undermine the EC’s credibility,” he argued.
In an interview on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Arkoh emphasized that EC appointees should be free from political ties. “Ghanaians are concerned because these appointments prevent the EC from working independently,” he stated.
He stressed the need for adherence to laws governing EC appointments. “Those appointed to the EC should have no political party affiliation. Francis Bossman and Dr. Appiahene are known NPP members, which is problematic,” Arkoh noted.
Arkoh urged that irrespective of the ruling party, the EC must operate independently. “Election Ghana seeks to ensure the EC’s independence, which is vital for credible elections,” he added.
He concluded by calling for strict enforcement of the 1992 constitution’s provisions on EC appointments. “Only by doing this can we ensure the EC is a trustworthy institution capable of working transparently. Without this, their credibility will always be in question,” Arkoh remarked.
Election Watch Ghana’s accusations highlight ongoing concerns about the EC’s independence. The organization demands an impartial electoral body to ensure fairness in the upcoming elections.
President Akufo-Addo’s recent appointments have stirred debate about political influence over the EC. Critics argue that such appointments compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
Supporters of the President argue that the appointments are within his constitutional rights. However, Election Watch Ghana insists that political affiliations of appointees erode public trust in the EC.
The debate over the EC’s independence is not new. Previous administrations faced similar accusations, indicating a systemic issue in Ghana’s electoral system. The call for a truly independent EC is echoed by many Ghanaians who seek transparency and fairness.
The upcoming 2024 elections will test the EC’s ability to function without bias. Election Watch Ghana’s advocacy underscores the importance of non-partisan oversight in electoral processes.
As Ghana approaches the elections, the need for an independent EC remains a crucial topic. Ensuring that the electoral body operates without political interference is essential for democratic integrity.
The allegations against President Akufo-Addo’s appointments to the EC reflect broader concerns about governance and fairness in Ghana. The debate continues as Election Watch Ghana pushes for reforms to secure the EC’s independence.
Election Watch Ghana’s claims against the President highlight significant issues regarding the EC’s credibility. The demand for non-partisan oversight is vital for the legitimacy of Ghana’s electoral system.
Source: Ghana Web
