Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang joins Mahama to swear in two new Electoral Commission Deputy Chairpersons
Story by: Regina Bless
Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has joined President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House in Accra for the swearing-in of two newly appointed Deputy Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission (EC), Emelia Afi Agbenyo and Dr Joseph Kwaku Asamoah.
The ceremony, held on Monday, October 12, 2026, formally ushered the two officials into their new roles within the Commission, which is responsible for overseeing Ghana’s electoral processes.
The appointments fill vacancies created by the departure of the Commission’s former Deputy Chairpersons, Dr Bossman Eric Asare, who resigned effective July 31, 2026, to return to academia at the University of Ghana, and Samuel Tettey, who left office after reaching the mandatory retirement age.
Mahama Charges New Deputies to Uphold Integrity and Impartiality
During the ceremony, President Mahama charged the newly sworn-in officials to discharge their duties with integrity, fairness and impartiality, stressing the importance of maintaining public confidence in the Electoral Commission.
He urged them to ensure that all political parties, candidates and electoral stakeholders receive fair treatment, regardless of their political affiliations.
The President further emphasised that decisions taken by the Commission must be firmly guided by the Constitution, the rule of law and the principles of transparency and accountability.
He called on the new Deputy Chairpersons to exercise their authority responsibly and ensure that the Commission conducts its activities in a manner that strengthens confidence in Ghana’s democratic institutions.
President Mahama also underscored the importance of constructive engagement with political parties, civil society organisations, the media and the general public in promoting credible electoral processes.
Experience to Support Electoral Administration
Dr Joseph Kwaku Asamoah brings experience in law, accounting, academia and electoral administration. Before his appointment, he served the Electoral Commission in several capacities, including Director of Finance, Director of the Training Centre and Head of Audit. He also participated in the administration of the 2012 and 2016 general elections, among other electoral exercises.
Emelia Afi Agbenyo, a development professional with experience in technical and vocational education and training, public policy and development planning, previously served as Deputy Director-General of Operations at the Ghana TVET Service and as a commissioner of the National Development Planning Commission.
Their appointments are expected to strengthen the Commission’s leadership as it continues its responsibility of managing elections and preparing for future electoral cycles.
Vice President Congratulates the New Appointees
Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang congratulated both officials on their appointments and wished them well as they assume their new responsibilities in service to Ghana.
She expressed confidence in their ability to contribute to the work of the Electoral Commission and encouraged them to approach their duties with professionalism, integrity and a strong commitment to the national interest.
The swearing-in ceremony highlights the importance of impartial electoral administration in safeguarding Ghana’s democratic processes. The new Deputy Chairpersons are expected to work with the Commission’s leadership and other stakeholders to promote fairness, transparency and public confidence in elections.
As they begin their tenure, their ability to uphold constitutional principles and ensure equal treatment for all electoral stakeholders will remain central to the Commission’s responsibility to the people of Ghana.