The Anchoring Democracy Advocacy Movement Ghana (ADAM-Gh) has called for a complete overhaul of the Electoral Commission (EC) to restore public trust in Ghana's democratic governance.
According to Azubila Emmanuel Abdu-Salam, Executive Secretary of ADAM-Ghana, the public's trust in the EC has been eroded under the leadership of Chairperson Jean Mensa.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra, Abdu-Salam attributed the low voter turnout in recent elections to the lack of trust in the EC, particularly in strongholds of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He refuted claims that low participation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was the cause of the low turnout.
Abdu-Salam also questioned the EC's reasons for re-collation exercises, citing unjustified claims of returning officers declaring results under duress. He pointed out that there was no evidence to support these claims, and that the police had not arrested anyone in connection with these alleged incidents.
The ADAM-Gh executive secretary cautioned that the EC's actions could set a precedent for political parties to appoint their own EC chairpersons, undermining Ghana's democracy. He noted that this could lead to a situation where the President appoints their party's national chairman or chairperson as the electoral commissioner.
Abdu-Salam commended Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for conceding defeat before the official election result declaration. He called on Mrs. Mensah and her deputies to resign voluntarily, citing their failure to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
ADAM-Gh is urging parliament to reconsider the appointment process for the EC chairperson to ensure neutrality and professionalism. The organization vows to use legitimate means to push for the resignation of Mrs. Mensah and her deputies if they fail to step down voluntarily.
In conclusion, the call for an overhaul of the EC is a necessary step to restore public trust in Ghana's democratic governance. The actions of the EC under Mrs. Mensah's leadership have undermined the integrity of the electoral process, and it is time for a change. ADAM-Gh's advocacy for a neutral and professional EC is a step in the right direction, and it is hoped that parliament will take the necessary steps to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
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