President John Dramani Mahama has challenged the newly appointed Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Charlotte Osei to learn from her predecessor, Dr. Kwadwo Afari Gyan as she assumes her role.
Mrs Charlotte Osei was sworn in by the President on Tuesday at the Flagstaff House in Accra.
[contextly_sidebar id=”Mixl8ZYcYCKSTYntdaqpG9hwTbFIofFO”]While congratulating her on her appointment, Mahama also reminded her that she was taking a position that brings along a lot of pressure from various quarters.
“While congratulating you on your appointment to what is a rather tough position, let me remind you with all humility that you are stepping into some very big shoes,” he noted.
“Dr Kwadwo Afari Gyan has proven over the last two decades or so that he is a collosis when it comes to elections and electoral systems and has despite whatever grievances, we as politicians might have expressed against him either in government or in opposition distinguinshed himself creditably and contributed immensely to the stability of our democracy.”
The President therefore tasked her to tap into the advice and support of her predecessors to successfully execute her duties.
“We are however blessed to have some other very experienced deputy commissioners and members of the Commission in place who I am sure will provide you with some invaluable advice and support.”
Appointment is a milestone
President Mahama also noted that her appointment marks a milestone in “Ghana’s journey of democratic consolidation.”
He further extended his gratitude to the Council of State for the sound advice offered him during the appointment.
“ On behalf of all Ghanaians and on my own behalf I wish to thank the Council of State for the sound advice I received in the appointment of the new EC Chairperson,” said the President.
Violence must never have a place
President Mahama further touched on relationship between various political parties in the country, asking them to eschew “unsavoury and unprintable language” which pollutes the tone of political discussions.
“We must must begin to reflect the long years of our fourth republic.Violence must never have a place in our politics be it intraparty or interparty,” the President stressed.
“We are in politics to compete for power with the sole aim of advancing the course of Ghana. Nothing more, nothing less.Let this guide our path as we work to transform our nation to greatness.”
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By: Marian Efe Ansah/citifmonline.com/Ghana
Follow @EfeAnsah