Voters, not EC appointments, decide elections - Callistus Mahama writes

Callistus Mahama, the Executive Secretary to President John Dramani Mahama, has cautioned that appointing the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) does not ensure electoral success for the appointing President or party. In a commentary on Ghana's electoral process, Mr Mahama emphasized the crucial role of voters in shaping election outcomes.

He noted that while Ghanaian voters are portrayed as discerning and capable of changing governments, discussions around EC appointments can sometimes imply an inevitable electoral victory for the appointing party. He used the 2016 and 2024 elections as examples, pointing out that despite President Mahama appointing Charlotte Osei as EC Chairperson in 2016 and President Akufo-Addo appointing Jean Mensa in 2018, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) lost in 2016 and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) lost in 2024.

Mr Mahama warned against treating an EC Chairperson's political affiliation as a guarantee of victory for the appointing government. However, he acknowledged that the examples did not prove that electoral administration was free from errors or misconduct. He stressed the importance of voters' decisions being influenced by a range of factors, including household income, employment opportunities, agricultural costs, road infrastructure, and market access.

Mr Mahama argued that focusing solely on EC appointments in explaining election results overlooks the agency of ordinary citizens in the political process. He emphasized that presidential appointments to the EC do not give the appointing authority control over the Commission's decisions, as the President's appointment is made on the advice of the Council of State, requiring the commissioner to act independently.

He stressed that an appointment conveys responsibility, not ownership, of the commission's actions. Despite his stance, Mr Mahama acknowledged the need for scrutiny of the EC and its commissioners, advocating for impartial electoral administration and improvements in various electoral processes. He also urged political actors to substantiate allegations of wrongdoing with evidence and pursue necessary electoral reforms.

Mr Mahama's commentary comes amidst ongoing debate over the appointment of Dr Joseph Kwaku Asamoah and Emelia Afi Agbenyo as Deputy Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission, with the NPP questioning Madam Agbenyo's political affiliation and calling for her withdrawal.