A total of 155 individuals across Ghana’s 16 regions have filed their nominations to contest for seats in the Council of State elections scheduled for Tuesday, February 11. The list, compiled by the Daily Graphic, reveals a diverse pool of aspirants, comprising 145 men and 10 women.
Each region will elect one representative through an Electoral College system, consisting of two delegates from each District Assembly, as stipulated by the Electoral Commission (EC). Public voting does not apply in this process. Below is a regional breakdown of the nominees and preparations.
Greater Accra
The Greater Accra Region leads with 13 candidates, including notable personalities such as Joseph Nii Laryea Afotey-Agbo, former MP for Kpone-Katamanso, and Nene Drolor Bosso Adamtey I, a businessman and traditional ruler. The EC’s regional director, Gladys Pinkrah, confirmed the readiness for the election.
Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo Regions
From the middle belt, 27 men and two women have filed their nominations.
Bono Region: Noteworthy candidates include Odeneho Dr. Affram Brempong III, a traditional leader; Dominic Adu-Gyimah, a teacher; and Nana Mary Adjeiwaah, one of the few female contestants.
Bono East: Pimampim Yaw Kagbrese, the Omanhene of the Yeji Traditional Area, headlines the list alongside educators, administrators, and healthcare professionals.
Ahafo Region: The candidates include Sir Shai Agyemang, a nurse, and Barima Twireku Ampem, a sub-chief.
Northern Region
Four candidates are vying for the position, including Alhaji Mohammed Mumuni, former MP for Kumbungu, and economist Richard Andani Yakubu. The region’s EC Deputy Director, Bismark Nteh, noted one disqualification due to an invalid voter ID.
Central Region
The Central Region features 10 contestants, including Osagyefo Amanfo Edu VI, Omanhen of the Mankessim Traditional Area. The lone female candidate, Hannah Cudjoe, is an administrator with a Master’s degree in Development Studies. The election will be conducted at the Regional Coordinating Council with 44 voters.
Eastern Region
The Eastern Region has 24 contestants—21 males and three females. A mix of traditional leaders, educators, and entrepreneurs dominate the list.
Western and Western North Regions
Western Region: Nine candidates, including professionals from varied fields, have filed nominations.
Western North Region: The three contestants include Nelson Ackah, President of the Ghana National Association of Assembly Members, and Michael Aidoo, Western North Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress.
Ashanti Region
Twelve candidates, ranging from ages 27 to 68, will contest in the Ashanti Region. The lineup includes traditional rulers, farmers, and a journalist. Notable figures include Nana Yaw Akuoko and Rose Hamilton. Voting will occur at the Regional Coordinating Council.
Volta Region
The Volta Region has 13 candidates, with the youngest being 29 years old and the oldest 71. Traditional leaders and professionals in education and law make up the group.
Upper East and Upper West Regions
Upper East Region: Nine candidates, including a nurse, a social worker, and a climate change consultant, are vying for the seat.
Upper West Region: All 11 candidates are male, with the youngest being 38 and the oldest 68. The qualifications of contestants range from BECE to PhD holders.
Background and Mandate of the Council of State
Established under Articles 89 to 92 of the 1992 Constitution, the Council of State advises the President on key matters, including appointments and legislative considerations. Its membership includes elected regional representatives, appointees of the President, and distinguished former officials such as a Chief Justice and a Chief of Defence Staff.
The Council also elects its chairman from among its members. The tenure of members coincides with the President’s term, barring resignations or incapacitations.
With the elections approaching, the EC has assured the public of its preparedness to ensure a transparent and credible process across all regions.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson
