Our electoral processes must be more robust for fair elections-Nana Addo

President Nana Akufo-Addo has commended the Electoral Commission (EC) and its Chairperson for the conduct of the 2016 presidential and parliamentary elections, an election he noted have received domestic and international recognition.

The President, however, expressed hope that the electoral processes will become more robust to ensure free, fair and transparent elections in the future.

The Commissioner and the EC came under serious attacks from political parties including the NPP with allegations of rigging planned rigging for the then government led by former President John Dramani Mahama.

But appearing before Parliament today, the President commended the EC saying: ‘’I use this occasion to commend the Electoral Commission and its Chairperson, Charlotte Osei, for the conduct of our recent elections, which has received domestic and international acclaim.

"In the coming years, I hope that our electoral processes will become even more robust so that free and fair elections become automatic parts of our democratic culture.’’

President Nana Akufo-Addo was declared as the winner of the presidential race by Madam Charlotte Osei, the first female Electoral Commissioner in December last year.

He polled 53.85% to become the first candidate to defeat a sitting president who served only a term in office. Commenting on his victory, Nana Addo said: "Ghanaians voted massively for change on December 7, 2016. On December 7th, 2016, the Ghanaian people went to the polls and voted decisively for change.

"As a result, today, I am here again in this House, this time as President of the Republic, having secured an emphatic, electoral victory… We have to thank God for His Grace and Favour for a peaceful and smooth transfer of power, in which Ghanaians rose to the occasion, and made our nation the object of world admiration. The Ghanaian people are to be commended for their strong attachment to the principles of democratic accountability."

He also commended former President Mahama for ensure a smooth transition. He said: "I would like to take this opportunity, Mr Speaker, to express my sincere appreciation to my predecessor, President John Mahama, for his leadership and his role in the transition. His conduct has been a credit to our nation."