Election Watch Ghana has called for sweeping reforms in the appointment of Electoral Commission (EC) leadership following the resignation and retirement of some deputy officials of the Commission.
In a statement issued on June 16, the civil society group said the tenure of the outgoing officials was characterized by “disappointments, inconsistency and lack of trust from the public,” stressing that the development presents an opportunity for the country to rebuild confidence in its electoral management body.
The group urged President John Dramani Mahama to appoint deputy commissioners who will prioritize innovation, efficiency and transparency in the administration of elections.
According to Election Watch Ghana, the next generation of Electoral Commission leaders “must leverage modern technologies to streamline voting processes, result transmission, and collation to ensure timely and credible elections.”
The organization also cautioned against promoting current junior officers within the Commission to the vacant leadership positions, arguing that they do not possess the credibility and public trust required for the roles.
“The people of Ghana deserve better,” the group stated, adding that it would oppose any appointments that elevate existing junior officers to the deputy leadership positions.
Election Watch Ghana further expressed concerns about what it described as the “opaque” nature of the appointment process for Electoral Commission officials.
The group argued that although the President appoints EC leadership in consultation with the Council of State, the law does not compel the President to follow the Council’s advice, a situation it believes has contributed to perceptions of partisanship.
The group therefore called for a more transparent and inclusive appointment system that places merit, competence and the public interest at the centre of the selection process.
“We call for a more transparent and inclusive appointment process that prioritizes merit and public interest,” the Group said.
It also urged prospective appointees to demonstrate the highest levels of integrity, impartiality and professionalism, noting that public confidence in the electoral process must be restored.
Election Watch Ghana said it would closely monitor the appointment process and hold the new leadership accountable to ensure they serve the nation effectively and help strengthen Ghana’s democratic institutions.
