EC sets Council of State elections for February 11

The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced the election of Regional Representatives to the Council of State, in accordance with Paragraph (C), Clause (2) of Article 89 of the 1992 Constitution.

The elections are scheduled to take place on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, in all regional capitals.

A statement signed by the Chairperson of the EC, Jean Mensa, said qualified persons who intend to stand for the elections should submit their nomination forms with two recent bust-sized photographs against a red background.

Nomination forms

It said the forms should be submitted to the Regional Director of their respective regions between January 28 and 31, 2025, between the hours of 9.00 am and 12.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm each day. 

"The nominations must be proposed and seconded by two registered voters in the region and supported by 20 registered voters from the region," the statement said.
 

"The candidate must also consent to their nomination for election as a member of the Council of State,” it added.

The EC said the nomination forms are available on its website (www.ec.gov.gh) and candidates are required to complete them in triplicate.

It said the Commission will determine the venues for the elections in each regional capital.

Background

The Council of State is a body established by the 1992 Constitution to counsel the President in the performance of his functions. 

Its composition includes representatives from each of the 16 regions, elected by an electoral college as well as 11 persons appointed by the President.

The key responsibilities of the Council of State include providing counsel to the President on national issues, advising on appointments that require consultation with the Council, such as judicial appointments and making recommendations on matters being considered by the President, Ministers or Parliament.

The Council of State holds meetings at least four times a year to discuss national issues and advise the President.