EC must command public confidence regardless of which party is in power – Victoria Bright

Victoria Bright, a private legal practitioner, has emphasized the importance of maintaining public confidence in the Electoral Commission (EC) regardless of which political party is in power. Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme, she highlighted three key questions to consider when assessing EC appointments: constitutional legality, professional suitability, and public confidence in the appointees' independence.

Bright argued that the credibility of the EC depends on its perceived impartiality, regardless of political power shifts. She cautioned against altering appointment standards when political power changes hands, as this could erode public trust in the Commission's neutrality. Bright acknowledged the legitimacy of concerns about Emelia Afi Agbenyo's perceived political affiliations but stressed that her qualifications deserved fair consideration.

She also noted that Dr Joseph Kweku Asamoah's prior experience within the EC was relevant to his new role. Bright recalled the controversy surrounding EC appointments made under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, including the appointment of Jean Mensa, and questioned why similar concerns about partisan associations were not met with the same scrutiny when the NPP was in opposition.

She urged both political parties to uphold the principles they advocated for during opposition, rather than relying on past controversies as justification for further appointments. Bright also expressed concern that the government's explanation for the appointments, intended to rebalance the Commission's composition, could undermine its role as an impartial arbiter.

She maintained that the EC's priority should be to protect its independence and credibility, rather than reflecting a political contest between the governing party and the opposition.