The government has confirmed that Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Dr Bossman Asare, has formally notified President John Dramani Mahama of his decision to resign from office, effective July 31, 2026.
The announcement was made by the Minister for Government Communications, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, during a media briefing on Monday, June 15. According to the Minister, Dr Asare’s resignation is motivated by his desire to return to academia and continue his professional career at the University of Ghana.
“Regarding Dr Bossman Asare, I can confirm that he has submitted a letter to His Excellency the President indicating that, effective 31st July, 2026, he will resign his position as Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission”.
Minister for Government Communications, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu
The Minister explained that Dr Asare had expressed appreciation to both the President and the people of Ghana for the opportunity to serve in one of the country’s most important constitutional bodies.
According to him, the outgoing Deputy Chairperson acknowledged the confidence reposed in him throughout his tenure at the Commission and conveyed gratitude for the chance to contribute to Ghana’s electoral administration.
Return to Academia
Government indicated that Dr Asare’s departure forms part of a planned transition rather than an abrupt exit from public service. Hon Kwakye Ofosu noted that the Deputy Chairperson had cited his intention to resume his academic career as the principal reason behind his decision.
“He gives a reason for his resignation, which is that he wants to go back to academia and pursue his career as a staff member of the University of Ghana.”
Minister for Government Communications, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu
Dr Asare, a political science lecturer before his appointment to the Electoral Commission, has served as one of the Commission’s Deputy Chairpersons responsible for corporate services.
His resignation will take effect at the end of July, allowing time for the necessary constitutional and administrative arrangements to be made regarding his replacement.
Samuel Tettey Retires from Commission
In a related development, the government also announced that another Deputy Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Mr Samuel Tettey, has proceeded on retirement.
Mr Tettey, who has been associated with the Commission’s electoral operations for several years, exits office after a long period of service within Ghana’s electoral management framework.
The Minister stated that the retirement has already triggered succession procedures aimed at ensuring that the Commission continues to function effectively without disruption.
According to Mr Kwakye Ofosu, steps have been initiated to fill the vacancy created by Mr Tettey’s departure. He disclosed that a nominee has already been submitted to the Council of State for consideration.
Replacement Processes Underway
Government says constitutional procedures required to appoint a replacement for Mr Tettey are currently in progress. The Minister explained that the Council of State is examining the nomination before the formal appointment process can be concluded.
“In that regard, processes are underway. Indeed, the Council of State has already been given a nominee who they are considering, and once that process is completed, an announcement will be made in terms of a replacement for Mr Tettey.”
Minister for Government Communications, Hon. Felix Kwakye Ofosu
He added that similar arrangements would subsequently be undertaken to appoint a successor to Dr Bossman Asare after his resignation becomes effective.
The staggered nature of the transition is expected to provide the Commission with the opportunity to maintain institutional stability while leadership changes are implemented.
Significance of the Transition
The Electoral Commission occupies a central position within Ghana’s democratic architecture, overseeing elections and referenda while safeguarding the integrity of electoral processes.
Changes within the leadership of the Commission often attract public attention because of the institution’s constitutional mandate and its role in maintaining confidence in the country’s democratic system.
The simultaneous exit of two Deputy Chairpersons therefore represents an important moment in the Commission’s institutional history. However, government officials have sought to assure the public that established constitutional procedures will guide the transition process.
The involvement of the Council of State in the appointment of new officials forms part of safeguards intended to ensure continuity and legitimacy within the Commission’s leadership structure.
For Dr Bossman Asare, the move marks a return to academia after years of public service at the Electoral Commission. For Mr Samuel Tettey, retirement brings to a close a distinguished period of service within one of Ghana’s most critical democratic institutions.
As the transition unfolds in the coming weeks, attention will turn to the appointment of their successors and the continued work of the Electoral Commission in advancing its constitutional responsibilities.
Government insists that the ongoing processes will ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities and preserve the effectiveness of the Commission as it prepares for future electoral assignments.
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