Newly appointed Deputy Commissioners of the Electoral Commission (EC) have pledged to discharge their duties without fear or favour, assuring President John Dramani Mahama of their commitment to restoring public confidence in the Commission and safeguarding the credibility of Ghana’s elections. The Deputy Commissioners, Dr Joseph Kwaku Asamoah and Emelia Afi Agbenyo, were sworn in on Monday, October 12, 2026, by President Mahama. During the swearing-in ceremony, Dr Asamoah emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust in the Commission and protecting the integrity of the electoral process.
Dr Asamoah identified misinformation, disinformation, and fake news as major challenges to electoral processes, warning that the spread of false information could undermine political interests and fuel divisions in the country. He noted that false information poses a threat to public confidence and social cohesion, particularly when it spreads during election periods. According to Dr Asamoah, the responsible use of new media could strengthen civic education and encourage greater participation in the democratic process, especially among young people.
The Deputy Commissioner called on political parties, Parliament, the security services, civil society organisations, the judiciary, the media, and citizens to work together to protect the integrity of Ghana’s electoral processes. He emphasized that a credible election is not the responsibility of the Commission alone, but a national duty that requires the active participation of all stakeholders. Dr Asamoah urged Ghanaians to engage with the EC, participate in its activities, and offer constructive criticism to help improve the institution.
Dr Asamoah also encouraged Ghanaians to participate actively in elections and engage with the Commission to help improve electoral administration and strengthen democratic governance. He quoted American political scientist Larry J. Sabato, who has written extensively on elections and voter behaviour, as saying, “Every election is determined by the people who show up to vote.” This, Dr Asamoah noted, underscores the importance of voter participation in the electoral process.
President Mahama, in his remarks, charged the new EC deputies to put national interest above political loyalties. He urged them to strengthen electoral technology, inclusion, and professionalism, and to work towards ensuring that Ghana’s elections are free, fair, and credible. The President also emphasized the importance of public engagement and scrutiny in strengthening the Commission and ensuring that it remains responsive to the needs and expectations of the electorate.
The appointment of Dr Asamoah and Emelia Afi Agbenyo as Deputy Commissioners is seen as a significant step towards restoring public confidence in the EC. The two appointees have a reputation for their expertise in electoral administration and their commitment to democratic governance. Their appointment is expected to bring a new level of professionalism and expertise to the Commission, and to help ensure that Ghana’s elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
The swearing-in ceremony of the new EC Deputy Commissioners was attended by various stakeholders, including representatives from political parties, civil society organisations, and the media. The event marked a significant milestone in the efforts to strengthen Ghana’s electoral system and to ensure that the country’s elections are conducted in a manner that is free, fair, and credible. The new Deputy Commissioners have pledged to work tirelessly to deliver on their mandate and to restore public confidence in the EC.
Key points
- The new EC Deputy Commissioners have pledged to discharge their duties without fear or favour.
- The Deputy Commissioners have identified misinformation, disinformation, and fake news as major challenges to electoral processes.
- The appointment of the new Deputy Commissioners is seen as a significant step towards restoring public confidence in the EC.
