Mahama warns new EC deputies against favouring government, political parties

President John Dramani Mahama has warned the newly sworn-in Deputy Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission (EC) against political favouritism, insisting that neither his government nor his party should receive preferential treatment.

Mahama gave the charge on Monday, October 12, when he swore Emelia Afi Agbenyo and Dr Joseph Kwaku Asamoah into office at the Presidency in Accra.

He urged the two officials to uphold impartiality, transparency and accountability in the discharge of their duties, stressing that the Commission must apply the same standards to all political parties and candidates.

“As President, I expect no preferential treatment from the Electoral Commission for myself, my party or my government,” he said.

He added that the Commission must protect the right of Ghanaians to freely choose their leaders and ensure that every valid vote reflects the will of the people.

Mahama also urged the new deputies to engage political parties, civil society organisations, the media and citizens, and to address concerns promptly to strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.

The appointments fill vacancies created by the departure of two former deputy chairpersons. Dr Bossman Eric Asare resigned effective July 31, 2026, to return to academia, while Samuel Tettey retired after attaining the compulsory retirement age.

Dr Asamoah brings more than 17 years of experience spanning electoral administration, public service, legal practice and academia. He previously served the EC as director of finance, director of the training centre and head of audit. He is also a law lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.

Agbenyo previously served as deputy director of operations at the Ghana TVET Service and has experience in public administration, institutional leadership and international development.

The two officials are expected to support the Commission in administering elections and strengthening public confidence in Ghana’s electoral processes.