Akosua Manu, a Special Adviser on Gender and Social Protection to former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has questioned the appointment of Affi Agbenyo as Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), accusing the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of abandoning principles it previously defended.
Speaking during a panel discussion on Saturday, October 17, Ms Manu argued that the NDC had strongly criticised similar appointments under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration on grounds of alleged political affiliations.
She cited the party’s reaction to the appointment of former EC Chairperson Jean Mensa, which was described as “indecent” and an abuse of discretionary powers because of concerns about her perceived political leanings.
Ms Manu also recalled comments made by President John Mahama in May 2024, when he questioned the appointment of individuals allegedly linked to the NPP’s Tertiary Students Confederacy Network (TESCON) to the electoral management body.
She argued that the appointment of Ms Agbenyo raised similar concerns, alleging that the new deputy chairperson had actively participated in NDC political activities.
According to Akosua Manu, the issue goes beyond ordinary party membership and centres on whether an appointee can demonstrate the independence required to oversee elections fairly.
She challenged the government to explain what had changed in less than two years, given the NDC’s earlier position on political affiliations within the EC.
Akosua Manu further questioned the consultation process leading to the appointments, particularly the role of the Council of State, saying she had not seen a clear account of its position.
