Dr. Bawumia Criticizes President Mahama Over Dismissal of Last-Minute Akufo-Addo Appointees
Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has taken a swipe at President John Dramani Mahama over the cancellation of last-minute appointments made by the previous Akufo-Addo administration.
A directive from the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, dated February 10, 2025, instructed all heads of government institutions to nullify appointments made after December 7, 2024. The decision has sparked criticism from the former Vice President, who argues that it contradicts the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s campaign promise of creating jobs for Ghanaians.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Dr. Bawumia accused the Mahama administration of unfairly targeting individuals who were legally employed under the former government. He stated, “Since assuming office, however, the government of President Mahama has pursued a series of actions targeting Ghanaians who were legitimately employed during the previous administration.”
Dr. Bawumia added that some dismissals have even affected public servants who are not political appointees, arguing that many of these individuals are losing their jobs simply because they are perceived to be associated with the former government. He stressed, “Regrettably, these dismissals have been extended to directors who are public servants and not politicians. In some cases, the only reason for dismissal was that the affected persons are known to or related to politicians.”
He also warned that reports suggesting the possible termination of security personnel, nurses, and teachers appointed under the previous government would be “most unfortunate.”
In response, Minister of State for Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, defended the decision, stating that many of the appointments did not follow due process.
According to Kwakye Ofosu, some individuals were appointed without submitting applications or undergoing interviews, while others had backdated appointment letters yet had not received any salaries. He emphasized that these irregularities warranted the cancellation of their appointments.
Meanwhile, the National Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, has filed a lawsuit against the government, challenging the termination of employment for individuals hired before and after December 7, 2024.
The case is expected to test the legality of the government’s decision, as affected individuals seek legal redress.
The controversy surrounding the dismissals has ignited a heated debate on employment security and political transitions, with many Ghanaians closely watching the unfolding legal battle.