A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communication Team, Hamza Suhuyini, has defended President John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of Emelia Affi Agbenyo as a Deputy Chairperson of Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC), insisting that the decision followed a thorough selection process.
Suhuyini dismissed suggestions that Madam Agbenyo was appointed solely because of her political affiliation, arguing that several candidates were considered before the final decision was made.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, October 17, 2026, the NDC communicator explained that the selection process involved multiple interviews, assessments of candidates’ qualifications, and consultations with relevant authorities.
He stressed that individuals perceived as politically independent were also considered for the position, urging the public to avoid interpreting the appointment as an attempt by the governing party to influence the Electoral Commission.
Hamza Suhuyini Explains Electoral Commission Appointment Process
According to Suhuyini, Emelia Affi Agbenyo underwent several interviews before emerging as the preferred candidate for the Deputy Chairperson position.
He disclosed that she appeared before the Council of State on multiple occasions as part of the assessment process.
“She was not the only person considered for that role. Indeed, she went through a series of interviews,” Suhuyini stated, adding that the selection process included reviewing candidates’ curricula vitae and conducting further engagements before reaching a decision.
He maintained that the appointment should be viewed in the context of the procedures followed rather than being attributed solely to the political background of the successful candidate.
NDC Acknowledges Emelia Affi Agbenyo’s Political Background
Suhuyini also acknowledged the public debate surrounding Madam Agbenyo’s reported association with the NDC, insisting that the party had never attempted to conceal her political background.
He argued that the party had consistently been open about the issue and would not mislead Ghanaians by denying any previous association.
“Those of us in the NDC, we are not denying the partisan affiliation of Madam Affi,” he said, maintaining that transparency was preferable to dismissing questions about her political connections.
His comments come amid heightened public scrutiny of appointments to Ghana’s Electoral Commission, an institution constitutionally mandated to conduct elections and safeguard the integrity of the country’s democratic process.
Mahama’s Decision Described as ‘Well Calculated’ and ‘Well Reasoned’
The NDC communicator further described President Mahama’s decision as “well calculated” and “well reasoned”, arguing that the President acted on the advice of the Council of State following the selection process.
Suhuyini maintained that Madam Agbenyo was considered qualified for the position and capable of contributing to the Electoral Commission’s constitutional responsibilities.
He also argued that the appointment was intended to support the broader objective of strengthening independence and neutrality within the election management body.
According to him, the selection should not automatically be interpreted as evidence that the governing NDC intends to use the Electoral Commission to advance its political interests.
Electoral Commission Appointment Sparks Political Debate
The appointment of Emelia Affi Agbenyo as a Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission has generated debate about political neutrality and public confidence in Ghana’s election management system.
Critics have raised concerns about whether an individual associated with the governing party can occupy a senior position at the EC without creating perceptions of political bias.
The controversy has renewed discussions about the importance of transparency, institutional independence, and public trust in Ghana’s democratic institutions.
While Suhuyini has defended the appointment by pointing to the selection process and the Council of State’s involvement, the debate highlights the continuing importance of ensuring that Electoral Commission officials are perceived to act independently and impartially.
As discussions continue, the appointment is likely to remain a subject of political and public interest, particularly as Ghanaians examine the role of the Electoral Commission in protecting electoral credibility and democratic accountability.
Source: newsthemegh.com