The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, has clarified that it is not the commission’s policy for its members, including the chairperson and deputies, to attend swearing-in ceremonies unless they receive an official invitation.
Speaking at an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Wednesday, February 26, to review the 2024 general elections, Jean Mensa revealed that the commission did not receive an invitation to attend the swearing-in of President John Dramani Mahama or any ministerial inaugurations.
Her remarks come in response to questions about her absence at President Mahama’s swearing-in ceremony.
Mahama was officially sworn in on January 7, 2025, at Black Star Square in Accra, marking the start of his second term after securing victory in the 2024 general elections. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, political leaders, and citizens who gathered to witness the event.
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo administered the oath of office, reaffirming Mahama’s commitment to serving Ghana and upholding the Constitution.
Addressing the matter, Jean Mensa stated: “I was here in the country, but per policy, the commission members, chairperson, and deputies don’t attend swearing-ins. Indeed, it is also by invitation, and we have never received an invitation to the swearing-in.
“I know that dignitaries and special guests are invited. But it has always been a matter of policy that we do not attend swearing-in ceremonies. At least for the duration that we have been in office, we have never attended any swearing-in ceremony,” she explained.
