Revocation of last-minute appointments not politically motivated – Kwakye Ofosu
Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed claims that the recent revocation of last-minute public sector and civil service appointments unfairly targets supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
His clarification comes after Chief of Staff Julius Debrah issued a directive nullifying all appointments made after December 7, 2024, under the previous government.
The decision has sparked debate, with some critics alleging political bias.
However, speaking on Eyewitness News on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that the move aims to uphold transparency, accountability, and merit-based recruitment.
“This government is committed to generating employment for all. Vacancies will be declared, and individuals will go through the proper recruitment process, including those whose appointments have been revoked,” he said.
He further stressed that the decision was not about replacing NPP supporters with National Democratic Congress (NDC) members but ensuring that employment in the public and civil service is based on merit.
Chief of Staff’s Directive
A letter from Chief of Staff Julius Debrah reiterated the government’s stance on last-minute appointments:
“In line with good governance principles, all public sector appointments made after December 7, 2024, are deemed non-compliant. Heads of government institutions must annul such appointments and submit a report on actions taken by February 17, 2025.”
The government has called for cooperation to ensure fairness and adherence to due process in public sector employment.
No deputy regional ministers in lean government plan – Felix Kwakye Ofosu reveals
President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to running the leanest government in Ghana’s history continues to draw attention. His spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has shed light on one key measure to achieve this goal.
Speaking on Key Points on TV3, Kwakye Ofosu revealed that the administration plans to forgo appointing Deputy Regional Ministers as part of its strategy to ensure efficiency with minimal resources.
“I doubt we’ll have Deputy Regional Ministers,” Kwakye Ofosu noted. “Ghanaians have embraced the idea of a leaner and more efficient government. These are measures that save money while ensuring the job gets done.”
President Mahama has pledged to work with only 60 ministers, a significant reduction from the over 120 ministers in Nana Akufo-Addo’s previous administration. This move is aimed at cutting government expenditure while maintaining effective governance.
Kwakye Ofosu’s comments offer a glimpse into the administration’s approach to implementing this streamlined structure, which has been a cornerstone of Mahama’s campaign promises.