Even before the time is due for the Chairman of the Electoral Commission to proceed on retirement, Peace News understands that government is considering extending the stay of Dr. Kwadwo Afari Gyan in order for him to preside over the 2016 general elections.
This is not the first time the Mahama led administration has done such a thing. It would be recalled that the current Inspector General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Alhassan’s stay in office was extended by the president despite reaching his retirement age.
In the case of Dr. Kwadwo Afari Gyan, although the contract extension has not been officially confirmed, spokespersons for the Convention People’s Party and Progressive People’s Party have spoken to Peace FM on the matter.
Mr. James Kwabena Bomfeh, a member of the CPP claims he doubts President Mahama would do such a thing since there are other competent hands waiting to replace Dr. Afari Gyan.
He candidly stated that he would not want to pre-empt Dr. Gyan’s retirement with this kind of discussion since he has personally heard him talk about preparing for his retirement in June.
Mr. Bomfeh continued that if the government thinks the time is too short for Dr. Afari Gyan’s successor to handle the presidential and parliamentary elections, they would have to rethink it again.
He explains that it is about time a new commissioner who would bring in new changes to solve the EC's present challenges is selected.
Mr. Kofi Siaw, General Secretary for the PPP also had his take on the matter. He openly stated that his party would not be happy with President Mahama if he extends the stay of Dr. Afari Gyan.
According to him, extending Dr. Gyan’s stay in office would invite more troubles for the nation in terms of elections.
He went on to state that the commissioner’s inability to organize this year’s district assembly elections has marred his image and keeping him at post would do more damages to Ghana.
“People don’t believe him (Afari Gyan) anymore. For 20 years he has done well but must be allowed to go”, he said.
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