- EC Chairperson explains absence at presidential swearing-in
- No official invitation received, says Jean Mensa
- EC policy is to not attend swearing-ins unless invited
The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, has clarified that it is not standard practice for members of the Commission, including the chairperson and deputies, to attend swearing-in ceremonies unless they receive an official invitation.
Speaking during an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Wednesday, February 26, which was held to review the upcoming 2024 general elections, Jean Mensa addressed concerns about her absence at the swearing-in of President John Dramani Mahama on January 7, 2025, at Black Star Square in Accra.
Mensa explained that the Commission did not receive an invitation to attend the swearing-in or any other ministerial inaugurations. “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,” she stated.
She further emphasized that although dignitaries and special guests are usually invited to such events, the EC has consistently adhered to a policy of not attending these ceremonies.
