The swearing-in of Electoral Commission (EC) Deputy Chairperson Emelia Affi Agbenyo has drawn backlash from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). President John Dramani Mahama swore in Emelia Affi Agbenyo and Dr Joseph Kweku Asamoah as Deputy Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission on Monday, October 12.

However, the opposition party has alleged that Emelia Affi Agbenyo does not possess the qualities required for the position because of her affiliation with the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Addressing the media, the party’s National Communications Director, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, said Electoral Commission officials are required to be independent, arguing that her alleged affiliation with the NDC disqualifies her from the position.

According to him, the Council of State must advise President Mahama to his decision.

“You must be independent. Is she independent? No.The Council of State ought to have known this woman’s colour, which is blatant. There is nothing secret about it, and they should have advised the President,” Miracles said.

Madam Emelia Affi Agbenyo previously served as Deputy Director-General in charge of Operations at the Ghana TVET Service, where she oversaw operations and supported the implementation of policies and programmes in technical and vocational education.

Her professional experience spans development administration and skills training, areas that formed part of her career before her appointment to the Electoral Commission.

She was sworn into office alongside Dr Joseph Kwaku Asamoah by President John Dramani Mahama on October 12, 2026. Their appointments filled vacancies left by former Deputy Chairpersons Dr Bossman Asare and Samuel Tettey.