A total of 155 candidates from all 16 regions of Ghana have filed their nominations to contest positions in the upcoming Council of State elections, scheduled for today, February 11. These highly anticipated elections are a crucial aspect of Ghana’s governance structure, as they will determine the regional representatives who will advise President John Dramani Mahama on key national matters. According to the Electoral Commission (EC), the list of candidates includes 145 males and 10 females, highlighting a significant gender disparity in the contest. Although the number of women candidates is relatively low, their participation represents a step toward increasing female representation in national decision-making bodies.
The candidates have successfully gone through the nomination process, which required them to meet specific eligibility criteria as set by the EC. This included proving their Ghanaian citizenship, demonstrating good standing in society, and fulfilling all necessary administrative requirements before the nomination deadline.
Unlike parliamentary and presidential elections, the Council of State election is not open to the general public. Instead, the selection process follows an Electoral College system, where voting is carried out by representatives from each district. District Assemblies nominates two representatives, forming a pool of electors who will cast their votes to determine the final Council of State members.
These selected electors play a crucial role in ensuring a fair and democratic selection process, as they are expected to assess the candidates based on their experience, expertise, and ability to contribute meaningfully to national governance. The Council of State is a constitutionally mandated advisory body that provides guidance to the President on policy formulation and national governance.
Established under Article 89 of the 1992 Constitution, the Council serves as a key consultative body, offering expert advice on governance-related issues, national security, economic development, and other critical state affairs.
By: Sammi Wiafe
