NDC should be judged by its own standards on EC appointments – Akosua Manu

Former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia's Special Adviser on Gender and Social Protection, Akosua Manu, has questioned why the NDC has changed its stance on appointments to the Electoral Commission (EC) within a short span of time. She made this remark during an appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, October 17. Ms Manu highlighted the NDC's opposition to the appointment of politically affiliated individuals to the EC during the party's opposition under the previous NPP government.

She criticized the appointment of the EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa, stating that it was indecent, a gross abuse of discretionary powers, and regrettable. She also recalled President Mahama's criticism of former President Nana Akufo-Addo's EC appointments in May 2024, expressing concern over politically exposed people and those allegedly linked to the NPP's Tertiary Students Confederacy Network (TESCON).

During the swearing-in of the new EC Deputy Chairpersons, President Mahama urged officials to serve without political bias, to uphold fairness and transparency, and to apply the law impartially towards any party or government. However, when the government defended Ms Agbenyo's appointment, stating that she is not a party member, Ms Manu argued that it is her political activity that raises valid questions about her ability to act independently.

She rejected the NDC's argument that they are following the NPP's precedent, insisting that it would undermine the party's promise to reset public institutions. Ms Manu also called for the Council of State's input on such appointments, expressing her disappointment that she had not seen their take on the matter.