Law professor and legal expert, Prof. Kwame Gyan, has criticised Ghana’s vetting system for ministerial nominees, labeling it inadequate in assessing their competence and suitability.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, January 18, Prof. Gyan called for reforms to ensure a more rigorous and transparent process.
“The vetting process is meant to evaluate technical competence, integrity, and overall suitability, but it fails to adequately address these criteria,” he remarked.
He underscored the significance of the process, noting its impact on the nation’s future. “The 60 ministers to be appointed will shape the destiny of 35 million Ghanaians and future generations. If their collective competence is lacking, the nation is at risk,” he warned.
Prof. Gyan also highlighted the process’s importance in instilling public and market confidence. “When nominees, especially key figures like the finance minister, are vetted, their responses should inspire trust in their ability to manage critical areas like the economy. Failure to do so raises doubts among international markets and speculators,” he explained.
He criticised the current system as a mere formality, arguing that it undermines the purpose of vetting. “In Ghana, a presidential nomination almost guarantees appointment. We rarely reject nominees, which defeats the essence of assessing competency, integrity, and suitability,” he said.
Prof. Gyan also described the omnibus appointments committee as outdated and ineffective. “The current approach is flawed. Even with new standing orders, the process fails to ensure rigorous scrutiny. A system like the one in the U.S., which prioritises both integrity and competence, is needed,” he suggested.
He called for a complete overhaul of the vetting process, proposing it be treated as a serious job interview.
“These are top-level positions, and we must ensure nominees are fully capable. Allowing only two members to ask one question each is insufficient. The process must reflect the importance of these roles,” he concluded.