Affi Agbenyo’s EC appointment is constitutionally appropriate, but politically, people have the right to remind us – Haruna Iddrisu

Tamale South Member of Parliament, Haruna Iddrisu, has affirmed President John Mahama's choice to appoint Emelia Affi Agbenyo as one of the two new Deputy Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission, deeming it "constitutionally appropriate." However, critics maintain the right to remind the New Democratic Congress (NDC) government of its past actions against similar appointments.

The 43-year-old Emelia Affi Agbenyo, a spokesperson for the NDC during the 2024 general elections, has faced controversy due to her past political affiliations. Her appointment has led to debates regarding her independence and neutrality in the sensitive office.

Iddrisu, who has worked with Agbenyo and considers her highly capable, argues that the appointment aligns with the president's constitutional powers under Article 45. He emphasizes the importance of an Electoral Commission that upholds democratic values and transparency, stating that he has firsthand experience with the Electoral Commission as its Chairman and Vice-Chairman for seven years.

Iddrisu predicts that future reforms to the constitution will address these complex issues, including a bill to amend entrenched provisions and another to amend non-entrenched provisions.

Addressing concerns about potential manipulation of election results by EC officials, Iddrisu clarifies that the role of the Electoral Commission is to provide a fair, open, and transparent platform, with the responsibility of winning elections and preventing fraud resting primarily on the candidates. He acknowledges the legitimate reservations of the Ghanaian people but confirms that the government has taken note of these concerns.