Prof. Ransford Yaw Gyampo Commends Electoral Commission Leadership Amidst Controversy
In the midst of mounting controversy surrounding the Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC), Professor Ransford Yaw Gyampo, a seasoned political scientist, has offered unwavering support for the competence of both the Chair of the EC, Jean Adukwei Mensa, and the Deputy Chair in charge of Corporate Services, Dr. Eric Bossman Asare.
These affirmations came during an exclusive interview on TV3’s “The Keypoints,” simulcast on 3FM, held on Saturday, September 16.
Professor Gyampo, who has had the privilege of working closely with both commissioners, emphasized their exceptional competence. Regarding Chairperson Jean Mensa, he revealed, “I cannot sit as part of a program to allow anyone to doubt it.” His unequivocal endorsement continued as he stressed, “She is a very competent person,” and he went on to recount her pivotal role in leading the IEA Ghana Political Parties Program, which significantly contributed to the development of the country’s democracy.
Reflecting on his extensive professional association with Dr. Bossman Asare, Professor Gyampo disclosed that they were course mates during their student days and subsequently became colleagues at the Department of Political Science at the University of Ghana. He acknowledged that public appointments of this nature often attract criticism, a sentiment he attributed to the ongoing scrutiny faced by both commissioners.
However, Professor Gyampo also pointed out that the expectations surrounding the EC’s performance have not been entirely met, especially since the commencement of the limited voter registration exercise. This exercise, which sparked controversy due to the EC’s decision to conduct it at district offices, faced opposition from some political parties, led by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), as well as civil society groups. Despite obtaining an injunction against the exercise, the EC proceeded with its plans, initiating nationwide registration on Tuesday, September 12, with an anticipated conclusion on Monday, October 2. Registrations are slated to occur on weekends from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.
Critics have called for the registration to be conducted at electoral areas, and there have been appeals to the youth to boycott the exercise in response to the EC’s perceived inflexibility. The Coalition of National Youth Organizers (CNYO) has issued a call to action, emphasizing the need for the EC to bring the exercise closer to the people for more convenient registration. In their words, “Our position is clear, if it must be done, then it must be done right.”
In the face of these ongoing challenges, Professor Gyampo’s endorsement of the EC leadership underscores the significance of competence and experience in the pursuit of fair and efficient electoral processes. Despite the controversies surrounding the registration exercise, the competence and dedication of the electoral commissioners continue to be lauded by prominent figures in the field of political science.
For further updates on this evolving situation, stay tuned to reliable news sources as the controversy surrounding the Electoral Commission of Ghana unfolds.