By Daily Democrat
In a recent development that has stirred up heated debates and concerns over the state of democracy in the country, the Council of State’s approval of the nomination of New Patriotic Party (NPP) activists, Dr. Peter Appiahene and Hajia Salima Ahmed Tijani, as Deputy Electoral Commissioners, has been met with strong criticism. The Community Focus Foundation Ghana (CFF-Ghana) has expressed deep reservations about this decision, labelling it as “ill-conceived and dangerous” for the country’s democratic principles.
The controversy was ignited when a letter, purportedly from the Council of State, emerged in response to concerns raised by the largest opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), regarding the appointment of the two prominent NPP activists. The letter referred to a thorough examination of the nominees’ Curriculum Vitaes (CVs) and subsequent recommendation for their appointment to the President.
CFF-Ghana has vehemently denounced the Council’s response, deeming it as “pedestrian” and a “joke.” The foundation criticized the Council’s approach, particularly highlighting the potential threat to Ghana’s democracy posed by the appointment of politically active individuals within the electoral commission. The letter accused the Council of State of being “jaundiced” in its perspective and expressed disappointment in its failure to consider the broader implications of its actions.
The organization also emphasized the importance of the Council of State’s role, as mandated by Article 70(2) of the 1992 Constitution, to serve as an advisory body to the President. It contended that the Council’s compromised response was an affront to the democratic principles upon which Ghana’s governance rests.
CFF-Ghana went on to assert that the Council of State’s endorsement of known NPP activists for such crucial roles within the Electoral Commission poses a tangible threat to Ghana’s emerging democracy. The foundation insisted that such appointments could potentially compromise the integrity of the electoral process and erode public trust in the system.
In a call to action, CFF-Ghana demanded the immediate resignation of Dr. Peter Appiahene and Hajia Salima Ahmed Tijani from their positions as Deputy Electoral Commissioners. The foundation argued that their departure from office is essential to rebuild public confidence and restore trust among all political stakeholders, both within Ghana and beyond.
As the nation watches closely, the controversy surrounding these appointments continues to fuel discussions about the delicate balance between political activism and the impartiality of key democratic institutions. The outcome of this dispute could have far-reaching implications for the future of Ghana’s democracy.
