By: Alhaji Alhassan A. Mbalba (Former Chairman – NDC- UK/Ireland Chapter)
Fellow Ghanaians,
While Article 70(2) of the 1992 Constitution grants the President of the Republic the authority to appoint the Chairperson and Commissioners of the Electoral Commission (EC), it is both prudent and democratic to periodically review such provisions. Constitutions are living documents—meant to evolve and adapt to the times.
Since the advent of the Fourth Republic, we have seen controversy flare up around EC appointments—not once, but repeatedly. When President John Mahama appointed Madam Charlotte Osei, opposition voices from the NPP raised concerns. Years later, with the appointment of Madam Jean Mensa by President Nana Akufo-Addo, it was the NDC’s turn to protest. This pattern clearly signals a bipartisan unease with the current appointment structure.
Ahead of the 2024 general elections, the NDC accused the EC of partiality toward the ruling NPP. Yet, when the Commission ordered a rerun in 19 polling stations in Ablekuma North, it was the NPP—through the Minority Leader in Parliament—that criticized the EC for yielding to pressure from the NDC. These shifting allegations highlight one core truth: trust in the EC’s independence remains fragile across the political spectrum.
Too often, we discuss these tensions loudly in the heat of the moment—only to forget them until the cycle begins again.
Let us seize this opportunity not just to debate, but to act—by exploring more inclusive, transparent ways to shape the EC’s leadership.
Looking Abroad: Models Worth Noting
The United States:
Commissioners are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. To limit partisanship, no more than three of the six may belong to the same political party, and official decisions require at least four votes. Terms are staggered, and the chair rotates annually.
The United Kingdom:
The UK’s Electoral Commission appointments are overseen by Parliament through the Speaker’s Committee. Some Commissioners are nominated by party leaders, ensuring pluralism and accountability to the democratic process.
Both countries admit it is virtually impossible to find officials who are truly apolitical. Instead, they have designed systems that balance representation while curbing undue partisan influence.
Ghana, too, must confront the reality that political neutrality in appointments is more aspiration than fact.
It’s time to stop pretending we can avoid politics altogether, and instead create a framework that invites transparency and fairness into the process.
The ongoing Constitutional Review Process, under the leadership of Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, presents an ideal opportunity to advance these reforms.
Here are three modest but vital proposals to consider:
- Parliamentary or Independent Vetting: involve Parliament, civil society, or an independent panel in the appointment and vetting process.
- Term Limits and Performance Benchmarks: Introduce clear mandates and measurable standards for Commissioners’ tenure and effectiveness.
- Broader Political Representation: Ensure appointments reflect the pluralism of our democracy—not just the preferences of the executive.
If we pursue reform now, we can build a resilient and respected Electoral Commission—one capable of earning public trust and withstanding political transitions without controversy.
Let us move from debate to action. Let us shape a more credible, more inclusive, and more democratic future.
By: Alhaji Alhassan A. Mbalba (Former Chairman – NDC- UK/Ireland Chapter)
