Credible elections are the cornerstone of democracy – Joseph Asamoah
Newly appointed Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr Joseph Kwaku Asamoah, has emphasised the importance of free, fair and credible elections to Ghana’s democratic development, pledging to ensure that every citizen’s vote counts and that the Commission puts national interest above partisan political considerations.
Dr Joseph Kwaku Asamoah, the newly appointed Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), has highlighted the significance of free, fair, and credible elections in Ghana's democratic progress. During his inauguration on October 12th, 2026, he committed to ensuring each citizen's vote holds weight and that the Commission serves the national interest over political affiliations.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Asamoah stressed that the integrity of elections lies at the heart of democratic governance and that the EC has a constitutional duty to safeguard the people's choice. He reiterated that "free, fair, and credible elections are the cornerstones of every democratic society" and that the Commission's primary duty and allegiance lie with the Ghanaian populace.
Article 1 of Ghana's 1992 Constitution grants sovereignty to the people, who express it through their votes. Dr Asamoah therefore urged Ghanaians to acknowledge the importance of their role in the electoral process, declaring "your vote is your voice and your future, and yes, it must be made to count, and it will count." In line with his advocacy for credible elections, the new Deputy Chairperson affirmed that the Commission's power would not be wielded to undermine citizens or suppress its staff.
He pledged that the Commission would remain transparent to public scrutiny, even when citizens voice strong criticism of its operations, while ensuring its authority is not used to oppress or intimidate its personnel. Dr Asamoah also pledged to collaborate with the Commission's staff and other stakeholders to develop and implement electoral policies and reforms that would bolster Ghana's democratic institutions.
He underscored the Commission's commitment to serving the national interest instead of partisan political considerations, stating that this would guide their work. The Deputy Chairperson emphasized that the Commission would draw upon the shared aspirations of Ghanaians and its staff to enhance electoral administration and fortify the country's democratic achievements.
To underscore his dedication to integrity in public service, Dr Asamoah quoted Donald A. Adams, a former president of RACRI International, on the virtues necessary for effective public service. Quoting Adams, Dr Asamoah said, "To give real service, you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity."
Dr Asamoah pledged, alongside his colleague Afi, to uphold these values in their duties. By pledging to prioritize national interest, protect citizens' voting rights, and pursue electoral reforms, Dr Asamoah asserted that the Commission would strive to ensure that the will of the Ghanaian electorate remains central to the democratic process.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
