'Be fair to all political parties' - Mahama to new EC Deputy Chairpersons

President John Dramani Mahama has charged newly sworn-in Deputy Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission (EC), Emelia Afi Agbenyo and Dr Joseph Kwaku Asamoah, to remain impartial and ensure that no political party receives preferential treatment.

He said the Commission must operate fairly and protect the right of Ghanaians to freely choose their leaders, regardless of which party is in power.

Speaking at their swearing-in ceremony on Monday, October 12, 2026, President Mahama reminded the two officials that their responsibility was to the Republic and its people, not any political party or government.

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

The President urged the new Deputy Chairpersons to uphold electoral integrity, even when their decisions might be unpopular with the government or other political actors.

"I expect an institution that applies the same standards to everyone and protects Ghanaians' right to choose their leaders freely," he added.

President Mahama also called on the officials to help make electoral participation easier for all citizens, including people who face physical, social or communication barriers.

He encouraged Ms Agbenyo and Dr Asamoah to use their different professional backgrounds to improve the Commission’s operations and strengthen its service to the public.

On public confidence in the EC, the President said trust could not be demanded but had to be earned through the Commission’s actions.

He urged the officials to ensure that the Commission’s procedures were transparent, its decisions clearly explained and concerns addressed promptly.

President Mahama also stressed the importance of keeping promises and engaging constructively with stakeholders to maintain confidence in the electoral process.

He said the two officials had a responsibility to help strengthen the Commission’s credibility through fairness, transparency and respect for the law.

NA/AM