Professor Stephen Adei, former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), has cautioned President-elect John Dramani Mahama against removing Jean Adukwei Mensa, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), and Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, stating that such actions would be “disastrous” for Ghana’s institutional integrity.

In an interview on TV3’s “Hot Issues” on December 22, 2024, Prof. Adei articulated his concerns, saying, “It will be disastrous; he will be consolidating a very bad practice which will not augur well for Ghana’s future, whereby every president basically appoints a new EC. We must find a way not to destroy our institutions.” His comments come amidst discussions about the potential reshuffling of key governmental positions as Mahama prepares for his inauguration on January 7, 2025.

The debate over the tenure of Jean Mensa and Justice Torkornoo has intensified, particularly among supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who have criticized both officials for alleged incompetence. These criticisms have been particularly vocal regarding Jean Mensa, whose leadership at the EC has been under scrutiny, especially after the 2020 elections.

Adding to the discourse, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, spokesperson for former President Mahama, has publicly urged for Jean Mensa’s resignation, accusing her of partisanship, lack of credibility, and integrity. This sentiment reflects a broader call from some quarters within the NDC for a change in leadership at these critical institutions.

The debate highlights a tension between the need for accountability and the preservation of institutional independence in Ghana’s governance structure. As the inauguration approaches, the political landscape is closely watching how Mahama will navigate these expectations while maintaining the stability and credibility of national institutions.