President Nana Akufo-Addo on Monday, March 20, 2023, swore into office three new members of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana.
The three, Reverend Akua Ofori Boateng, Salima Armed Tijani and Dr Peter Appiahene whose swearing-in took place at a short ceremony at the Jubilee House is in line with Article 43 (1 and 2) of the 1992 constitution.
It states that “there shall be an Electoral Commission which shall consist of a chairman, two deputy chairmen, and four other members. The members of the commission shall be appointed by President under article 70 of this Constitution.”
Their appointment, the president noted, comes into effect some 21 months to the 2024 general elections when Ghana seeks to entrench her credentials as a beacon of democracy in Africa.
President Akufo-Addo urged the newly sworn-in members to be firm with their decision as the 2024 general election approaches and not allow themselves to be manipulated because their decision is going to be scrutinised now more than ever before.
“It is the quality of your work that will reassure the Ghana people that the democratic system of government that they have chosen for their governance will be properly nurtured by an electoral system that allows their voice to be plainly and loudly heard.
“As you begin work, you will find no honeymoon period neither will you be afforded the chance to settle into your new responsibilities. I have nevertheless, confidence in you and in your abilities to surmount the hurdles before you.
“Remember now more than ever that every decision you take will be scrutinised to the letter. That, however, should not scare you and indeed, let know one try to cow you into submission,” says the president.
He reminded them of the expectation of the Ghanaian people as they seek greater heights and above all, work so that the will of the Ghanaian people is upheld.
Speaking on behalf of the members, Dr Appiahene thanked the president for the appointment and the council of state for supporting their nomination and added that they are “greatly humbled, honoured, motivated.”
“We are therefore aware of the massive responsibilities and tasks that come with it. We want to state that we are poised and more prepared to deliver and contribute to the development of our democracy, especially in this digital era,” he promised.
