Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has intervened to clarify the official government position regarding the alleged petition seeking the removal of the Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, Jean Mensa, and her two deputies. Despite significant public discourse and media attention surrounding the matter, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu firmly stated that President John Dramani Mahama is yet to officially receive the formal document. This assertion is crucial because the petition, reportedly filed by EC staff member Joseph Blankson Adumadzie, cannot trigger any constitutional action until it is formally presented to the Presidency. The Minister’s statement aims to manage public expectations and correct inaccuracies circulating in the media landscape.
The clarification highlights that while the substance of the petition—which alleges misconduct by the EC leadership—has been widely reported, its official delivery to the Head of State is pending. The absence of the formal document means the Presidency has not yet been formally charged with initiating the constitutional process necessary to address such a monumental request. The removal of the EC’s top leadership requires a rigorous, constitutionally-mandated inquiry, and the first step is the official submission and acknowledgment of the petition by the President. Until then, the process remains stalled at the administrative level, irrespective of the gravity of the allegations being made.
Minister Kwakye Ofosu’s intervention serves as a necessary governmental response to the widespread speculation and political pressure generated by the news of the petition. His statement confirms that, from the Executive’s perspective, the matter has not yet moved beyond the realm of public reporting into official governmental action. The public confirmation provides an official status update amid growing concern over the stability of the EC’s leadership, confirming that all parties must await the formal receipt of the petition before any steps can be taken to establish a committee or begin an inquiry into the fitness of the EC Chairperson and her deputies to hold office.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
