NDC's Mustapha Gbande Reveals: Jean Mensah, Deputies to Leave Electoral Commission

Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is calling for the removal of Jean Mensah, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, along with her two deputies, Dr. Bosman Asare and Samuel Tettey. Gbande believes that Mensah's actions and posturing have been politically tainted, and that her removal is necessary for credible, free, and fair elections .

Gbande's concerns about Mensah's leadership are not unfounded. There have been allegations of bias and incompetence against the Electoral Commission under Mensah's leadership. For instance, the commission's handling of the Ayawaso West Wuogon bye-election was widely criticized, with reports of violence and intimidation .

Gbande also pointed out that Mensah's announcement of her departure after declaring the presidential polls was a clear indication that she should leave office. He emphasized that any EC director who demonstrated political bias in the 2024 Elections would be shown the exit .

Interestingly, Gbande suggested that instead of leaving sensitive appointments to the president and the council of state, a more neutral and nonpartisan body should be allowed to make such appointments. He recommended that chiefs, pastors, and peace councils should nominate persons to the electoral commission .

It's worth noting that not everyone shares Gbande's views on Mensah's removal. For example, Haruna Iddrisu, the former Minority Leader, has rejected calls for Mensah's resignation, stating that there is no basis for her removal unless there is evidence of misconduct .