The Anchoring Democracy Advocacy Movement Ghana (ADAM-GH) held a press conference on Monday, December 23, 2024, at the GNAT Conference Hall in Accra. The theme for the event was “Rebuilding Public Confidence in Ghana’s Electoral Commission: The Way Forward.”
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of ADAM-GH, Azubila Emmanuel Abdul-Salam, expressed concerns over the state of Ghana’s democracy following the 2024 general elections. He warned that without urgent reforms, the nation’s democratic integrity could be at risk.
According to Mr. Azubila,
about 60% of eligible voters refrained from participating in the 2024 elections, citing dissatisfaction with the Electoral Commission (EC). He emphasized that many citizens perceive the EC as undermining the credibility and fairness of Ghana’s democratic processes, which has led to declining public trust.
Mr. Azubila referenced the tenure of former President Jerry John Rawlings, during which Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan was appointed as the Electoral Commissioner. He highlighted how Dr. Afari-Gyan’s leadership fostered confidence in the electoral system, contrasting it with the current administration under Madam Jean Mensa.
The group called for the removal of Madam Jean Mensa as an electoral commissioner, as well as a comprehensive overhaul of the commission’s staff. Mr. Azubila stated, “The tension in this year’s elections was palpable. Although Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia accepted defeat and called for calm. The EC’s actions, including delays in reconciliation of results, created unnecessary anxiety.”
ADAM-GH urged stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the international community, to advocate for reforms in the EC to ensure future elections are free, fair, and credible. The movement also stressed the need to restore the public’s love for democracy through transparency and accountability in electoral processes.
