The Centre for Democracy and Socio-Economic Development (CDS) Africa, a policy think tank, has submitted a counter-petition against two petitions calling for the removal of the Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, Jean Mensa, and her deputies.
The petition, dated March 4, 2025, was submitted to the Presidency on April 4, urging President John Dramani Mahama not to initiate any action to dissolve the Electoral Commission.
CDS Africa argues that dissolving the commission would set a dangerous precedent, making the EC a political tool that changes with every administration.
The think tank stresses the importance of maintaining the independence of the Electoral Commission to safeguard Ghana’s democracy.
“We believe that any action to remove the current EC leadership will undermine the commission’s autonomy and weaken the foundations of Ghana’s Fourth Republic,” the petition reads.
The two petitions seeking the removal of Jean Mensa, Dr. Bossman Asare, Samuel Tettey, and Dr. Peter Atuahene were filed by Positive Transparency and Accountability Movement Ghana and an individual, Daniel Ofosu-Appiah.
CDS Africa warns that any efforts to dissolve the EC would repeat the politically charged removals of 2017, which were widely seen as motivated by political factors.
The think tank argues that such actions would erode public trust in the commission and diminish Ghana’s democratic stability.
“If this cycle continues, it will irreparably damage the independence of the Electoral Commission,” the petition states.
The policy group emphasizes the need for political neutrality in electoral commissions, urging the President to reject the petitions and prevent any future interference with the EC.
They assert that maintaining the commission’s independence is crucial for upholding the integrity of Ghana’s democracy.
“Your Excellency, the independence of the Electoral Commission must outweigh all other considerations,” the petition concludes.
By: J.W Quarm
Credit: Graphic Online
