Governance and policy expert, Prof. Enoch Opoku Antwi, has emphasized the need for gender balance in Ghana’s leadership structures, particularly in the Council of State.
Speaking on Prime News on ABC News GH, he expressed hope that more women would secure positions in the upcoming Eastern Regional Council of State elections, scheduled for Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
“I hope the women win because we need a blend between the male and female. We need a balance.”
Effectiveness of the Council of State Questioned
Beyond gender representation, Prof. Opoku Antwi also raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Council of State, noting that public perception remains divided.
“There is a divided thought on the effectiveness of the Council of State. Their main function is to advise the president on any national issue.”
According to him, while the Council plays an advisory role, it has not been active or visible enough, especially in holding the President accountable on key policies.
“Because their efforts have not been made visible does not mean they are irrelevant. But we want to see the impact of their counseling or advice to the President, instead of being the backbenchers, and then we don’t hear what they are doing.”
Eastern Regional Council of State Elections Set
Prof. Opoku Antwi’s remarks come ahead of the upcoming elections for the Eastern Regional Council of State representatives, where 24 candidates have successfully filed their nominations.
According to Mr. John Appiah Baffoe, the Eastern Regional Director of the Electoral Commission, only three of the 24 candidates are women, underscoring the ongoing gender gap in leadership roles.
The 66-member electoral college, made up of delegates from 33 district assemblies, will vote to select representatives.
With debates over the Council of State’s effectiveness and gender balance, the election results could be a significant step towards redefining the role of advisors to the President.
