A staff member of the Electoral Commission (EC), Joseph Blankson Adumadzie, has petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to begin the process to remove EC Chairperson Jean Mensa and her two deputies, Dr Bossman Eric Asare and Samuel Tettey. He accuses them of misconduct that he believes undermines the credibility of the country’s electoral system.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 24, Mr Adumadzie said the petition was submitted under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, which sets out the procedure for removing heads of independent constitutional bodies. He declined to reveal the full details, as required by law, but said the petition is based on 12 allegations of stated misbehaviour.
The claims include cronyism, abuse of office and gross incompetence. He argues that the actions of the three officials have weakened public trust in the EC and put the integrity and independence of Ghana’s electoral process at risk.
Mr Adumadzie said his decision is motivated by a desire to uphold the Constitution and promote accountable governance. He stressed the importance of protecting the integrity of the Electoral Commission, which he described as critical to maintaining a credible democracy.
He also urged President Mahama to carry out his constitutional duty by forwarding the petition to the Chief Justice for a determination of a prima facie case, in line with Article 146 procedures.
Story by Doe Benjamin Kofi Lawson