PTAAM-Africa Petitions President Mahama for Removal of EC Chairperson Jean Mensa.
A group known as the Positive Transparency and Accountability Movement-Africa (PTAAM-Africa) has officially petitioned President John Dramani Mahama, calling for the removal of Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson Mrs. Jean Mensa and her deputies. The petition, filed in accordance with Article 146 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, outlines three primary reasons for this demand: financial loss to the state, creation of a constitutional crisis, and allegations of misconduct and abuse of office.
Grounds for the Petition
1. Financial Loss to the State
PTAAM-Africa claims that the EC under Mrs. Jean Mensa caused significant financial losses to Ghana through the procurement of new biometric voter devices and the creation of a new voter register ahead of the 2020 general elections. The group argues that the previous voter register and biometric devices used in 2016 were still robust and functional, making the expenditure unnecessary. The alleged financial loss, amounting to millions of taxpayer dollars, is described as a burden on the state.
2. Creation of a Constitutional Crisis
The petition accuses the EC leadership of knowingly creating a constitutional crisis during the 2020 elections. It highlights the decision to conduct a new voter registration exercise amid the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, a move the group claims endangered public health and exposed millions of Ghanaians to life-threatening risks. PTAAM-Africa asserts that this decision not only created public unrest but also undermined confidence in the electoral process.
3. Misconduct and Abuse of Public Office
The group further alleges misconduct and abuse of public office by Mrs. Mensa and her deputies. Specific accusations include:
• Gross incompetence: The group claims that the EC’s leadership failed to ensure smooth electoral processes.
• Bias and partiality: PTAAM-Africa accuses the EC of favoring certain political interests during its tenure.
• Procurement breaches: The petition alleges irregularities in the acquisition of election-related materials.
• Poor corporate governance: The group criticizes the EC for a lack of transparency and adherence to democratic principles.
Legal Basis for the Petition
PTAAM-Africa has invoked Article 146 of Ghana’s Constitution, which outlines the process for the removal of public officers such as the EC Chairperson. The group has urged President Mahama to act swiftly, citing the importance of maintaining public trust in the country’s electoral system.
Implications for Ghana’s Electoral Integrity
This petition raises critical questions about the governance and accountability of the Electoral Commission. As the EC is central to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, any lapses in its operations can undermine public confidence in Ghana’s democracy.
If President Mahama acts on the petition, it could set a significant precedent in holding public officeholders accountable. However, such actions must follow due process to ensure fairness and uphold the rule of law.
EC’s Silence on the Matter
As of now, neither Mrs. Jean Mensa nor the Electoral Commission has issued an official response to the allegations. It remains to be seen how the EC will address the concerns raised by PTAAM-Africa, and whether President Mahama will initiate proceedings to investigate the claims.
This development underscores the growing demand for transparency and accountability in Ghana’s democratic institutions. As the story unfolds, Ghanaians and stakeholders will closely monitor how the petition is handled, given its potential impact on the credibility of future elections.