Tamale South Member of Parliament Haruna Iddrisu has stepped into the fray over the latest Electoral Commission appointments, arguing that while the criticism is understandable, the law supports the President's decision.
Speaking on the Joy Super Morning Show on Tuesday, October 13, Iddrisu made it clear that Haruna Iddrisu defends EC appointment of Emelia Affi Agbenyo as constitutionally sound, even as opponents dig up past videos linking her to the National Democratic Congress.
The swearing-in of the 43-year-old international development professional has triggered a sharp reaction across social media.
Critics point to her record as a spokesperson for the NDC on governance during the 2024 general elections. Viral clips show her speaking on media platforms as a party representative, leading many to question whether she can remain neutral in a office that demands absolute impartiality.
For some, this looks like hypocrisy, given how the NDC reacted to similar appointments when the New Patriotic Party was in power.
Iddrisu acknowledged the tension without dismissing it. He told hosts that while the appointment is legally valid, the political optics matter.
"I know Affi very well, and I've worked with Affi. Affi, as at yesterday, was working under my Ministry, under TVET Services as Deputy to the Chief Executive," he said, establishing a professional link before addressing the constitutional question.
Constitution Versus Legislation
His core argument rests on Article 45 of the Constitution. Iddrisu contends that the President has the power to appoint, and the real issue is the lack of specific legislation defining eligibility thresholds.
"Now, one of the things we have not been able to do well is to use legislation to define the parameters of who is eligible," he noted.
Beyond the constitutional mandate providing for an Electoral Commission with two deputies, he believes Parliament needs to step in with clearer laws rather than relying on public outcry to determine suitability.
He also leaned on his own history with the Commission to bolster his confidence in the institution's resilience.
Iddrisu reminded listeners that he supervised the EC's budget for seven years, claiming a depth of knowledge second only to perhaps Kyei Mensa-Bonsu within Parliament's annals. His expectation is simple.
"I just want an Electoral Commission that does not endanger democratic ethos and values. Persons who are independent, persons who are courageous, and persons who uphold the values of transparency." - Haruna Iddrisu
Equity and Past Actions
When pressed on the hypocrisy angle, Iddrisu didn't dodge. He admitted critics have a right to hold the government to account based on past standards.
"I think the appointment is constitutionally appropriate, but politically, people have the right to remind us that if you seek equity, do equity. Maybe that's what it is reminding us of." - Haruna Iddrisu
The distinction he drew was between past affiliation and current conduct. He argued it would only become unacceptable if Agbenyo continues partisan activities while holding office.
Perhaps the most candid part of his intervention was his view on what the EC actually controls. Iddrisu disputed the notion that Commissioners hold the power to manipulate results for anyone.
He used his own constituency as an example, noting that the EC's job is to provide a fair platform, but winning remains the candidate's burden.
"The onus of winning the election is mine. It's not that of the Electoral Commission. And the onus of avoiding fraud, or being cheated, or somebody treating you unfairly, is largely also mine." - Haruna Iddrisu
He suggested many MPs abandon their role of monitoring ballot boxes and deployment of officers, preferring to blame the Commission later.
Reforms on the Horizon
This controversy, however, might not linger forever in its current form. Iddrisu hinted that major constitutional reforms are underway to address these complex appointment issues.
He assured viewers that President Mahama has ignited a review process that will lead to far-reaching changes.
"When Parliament comes back, the Attorney General, on behalf of President Mahama, will introduce two important bills in Parliament.
"One, a bill seeking to amend the entrenched provisions of the Constitution, and two, a bill seeking to amend the non-entrenched provisions." - Haruna Iddrisu
For now, the government has taken note of the public unhappiness, but the appointment stands. Iddrisu's message suggests the real test will be whether the incoming Commissioners can operate above the partisan noise that greeted their arrival, while Parliament works on tightening the rules for the future.
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