EC takes on Mahama

The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has issued a strong rebuttal to allegations by former President John Dramani Mahama regarding the Commission’s integrity and conduct.

The response comes in the wake of comments attributed to the former President during an interview at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

In his remarks, Mr Mahama raised concerns about the impartiality of appointments to the Electoral Commission, citing a perceived bias towards members affiliated with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Rebuttal

However, a statement released yesterday by Mr Fred Tetteh, Deputy Director in charge of Research, Monitoring and Evaluation, pointed to the constitutional provision for the appointment of its members and, recalled instances during Mr Mahama’s presidency where similar concerns were raised regarding appointments made by him.

Addressing John Mahama’s assertion that Ghana’s electoral processes had deteriorated, the EC refuted these claims, citing improvements made in each election cycle.

In the statement, EC indicated the successful conduct of the 2020 elections, which it said saw shorter queues, reduced costs, and increased efficiency in voter registration despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and adverse weather conditions.

The Commission also pointed to international praise for the transparency and integrity of the 2020 elections.

Denial

Regarding Mr Mahama’s allegation of irregularities in the recruitment of returning officers, the EC vehemently denied these claims, stressing that the process was conducted openly, fairly and transparently.

The statement emphasised that all successful applicants had significant prior experience working with the Commission.

The EC urged stakeholders to disseminate information accurately and responsibly, reaffirming its commitment to conducting transparent, credible and fair elections.

The EC reaffirmed its dedication to upholding the highest standards of integrity and protecting the sanctity of Ghana’s electoral process.

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