Akufo Addo to confirm new EC Boss’ appointment in 24 hours - Deputy Attorney General

President Nana Akufo Addo is likely to confirm the nomination of Mrs Jean Mensah as the new Chairperson of the Electoral Commission within the next 24 hours, Deputy Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame has revealed.

This is after the Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a writ for an application seeking an injunction to stop President Akufo Addo from continuing with the process of appointing a new Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.

A private individual Fafali Nyunator had prayed the apex court to declare that the Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo breached the constitution and exceeded the limits of her powers by defining the scope of the committee of enquiry that probed the petition for the removal of the former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Charlotte Osei.

According to the writ filed at the Supreme Court, Tuesday, July 3, 2018, Nyonator is seeking among other things a declaration that the determination by Her Ladyship, the Chief Justice of a prima facie case pursuant to Article 46 of the Constitution for the removal from office of the Chairperson of the EC is inconsistent with Article 130 (a) of the Constitution.

But a seven member panel of the Supreme Court ruling on the matter, explained that Article 2 clause of the Constitution makes available remedies for reinstatement if the court eventually finds the removal of Mrs Charlotte Osei unconstitutional.

Addressing the press after the ruling, Hon. Godfred Yeboah Dame stated that with the ruling President Akufo Addo has been cleared to go ahead with his appointment of the new EC chair.

“The way has been paved clear for the appointment of the Electoral Commissioner formally, the swearing in will take place. The President will act in accordance with this ruling which is that there’s no impediment in his way and he can go ahead and appoint. Indeed he’s going to appoint, I’m sure he’s going to appoint within the next 24 hours.”

Sources at the Presidency have confirmed to Kasapafmonline.com that the Council of State has approved Mrs Jean Mensah’s nomination.

She replaces Mrs. Charlotte Osei who was removed with her two deputies – Amadu Sulley and Georgina Opoku Amankwah – by the President following recommendations by a committee set up by the Chief Justice to probe a petition against them.