Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), has reaffirmed that the Commission is not responsible for deploying military personnel or handling any security arrangements during elections. Her statement comes amid public concerns following the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) announcement regarding the deployment of military personnel to ensure election security.
Speaking at a press briefing on December 7, Madam Mensa clarified the EC’s role, emphasizing the institution’s sole focus on organizing and overseeing elections. “In terms of security, we have no hand in it and we do not make security arrangements,” she said.
The GAF had earlier announced plans to deploy troops to strategic locations to maintain order during the election period but assured the public that no military personnel would be stationed at polling stations themselves.
The EC Chairperson’s clarification aims to delineate the responsibilities of the EC and the security agencies, reinforcing the message that the Commission’s mandate is distinct from operational security matters.
This statement is seen as an effort to reassure the electorate and dispel confusion over the roles of different entities in the electoral process. As Ghana heads to the polls, transparency and cooperation between institutions remain pivotal to ensuring a peaceful and credible election.
