A significant development has emerged in Ghana’s political landscape as a petition has been filed seeking the removal of the Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, Jean Mensa, along with her deputies, Samuel Tetteh and Dr. Bossman Eric Asare, and EC member, Dr. Peter Appiahene.
The petition was submitted to President John Mahama on January 27.
Grounds for the Petition
The petitioner, from the Volta Region, cites several grounds for the removal, including:
Breach of fundamental human rights: The petition argues that the EC violated Article 42 of the 1992 Constitution, specifically referencing the disenfranchisement of voters in the Santrokofi, Akpafu, Likpe, and Lolobi (SALL) areas during the 2020 parliamentary elections.
Constitutional breaches: The petition also alleges incompetence, bias, and actions undermining public confidence in the EC’s impartiality and integrity, contrary to Articles 23 and 296 of the 1992 constitution.
The SALL Disenfranchisement
The petition highlights the denial of parliamentary representation for the SALL residents for over four years. This action allegedly deprived them of a voice in the legislative process. The petitioner also argues that the SALL area’s vote could have changed the balance of power in the hung parliament, and that the EC’s actions suggest partisan bias.
Other Allegations
Poor management of the 2020 elections: The petitioner points to errors in the presidential election results. The timing of the announcement of the Guan District’s creation on the eve of elections is cited as an example of poor management.
Overt partisanship: The petitioner alleges that some commissioners have shown overt partisanship. Specifically, Dr. Bossman Asare is accused of making social media comments prior to his appointment that displayed bias against the opposition party.
The petition calls on President Mahama to act under Article 146 of the Constitution to restore public confidence in the electoral process. The petitioner has provided detailed exhibits and evidence to support the claims.
Background of EC Chair Jean Mensa
Jean Mensa was appointed as the EC Chairperson on 23 July 2018, following the removal of her predecessor, Charlotte Osei.
She has overseen two major elections since her appointment. This is not the first time she has faced such a challenge.
In August 2020, a petition by the Alliance for Social Equity and Public Accountability (ASEPA) was dismissed by former President Akufo-Addo.
In August 2022, the pressure group Fix the Country Movement also petitioned the former President against the Chair over the issues of the SALL people.
This situation is developing, and it remains to be seen how President Mahama will respond to the petition.
