In recent years, appointments by Ghana’s government have sparked a growing concern among citizens.
What was once seen as a solemn responsibility to serve the nation has increasingly taken on the appearance of a reward system—a trophy handed out to political loyalists, friends, and family members.
This trend is not only troubling but also undermines the very essence of public service. It raises the question: Are these appointments being made to serve the people of Ghana, or are they are being treated as personal achievements for the appointees?
At the heart of this issue is the perception that public office is no longer a call to duty but a prize to be won. Appointees often appear to view their positions as entitlements, a recognition of their loyalty or connections rather than a mandate to serve the public good.
This mindset is dangerous. It shifts the focus from accountability to privilege, from service to self-interest. When appointees see their roles as personal achievements, they are less likely to prioritize the needs of the people they are meant to serve.
The Ghanaian taxpayer funds these appointments. Every cedi spent on salaries, allowances, and operational costs comes from the hard work of ordinary citizens. Yet, too often, the return on this investment is disappointing.
Many appointees seem more focused on enjoying the perks of office than on delivering tangible results. This disconnect between the appointees and the people they serve is not just a failure of leadership; it is a betrayal of public trust.
One of the most glaring examples of this trend is the sheer size of Ghana’s government. Historically, successive administrations have been criticized for maintaining bloated cabinets and oversized government structures.
The erstwhile government, which recently handed over power to John Mahama’s administration, was no exception. It maintained a large cabinet, with numerous ministers, deputies, and special aides, many of whom were perceived as political appointees rather than individuals chosen for their expertise or ability to deliver results. This pattern has been a recurring theme in Ghana’s political history, with governments often prioritizing political alliances over efficient governance.
However, it is worth noting that the current Mahama administration appears to be taking steps to address this issue by reducing the size of its cabinet. This move has been welcomed by many Ghanaians who have long called for a leaner, more efficient government.
A smaller cabinet could potentially lead to better coordination, clearer accountability, and a more focused approach to governance. It is a step in the right direction, signaling a recognition of the need to prioritize service over symbolism.
That said, the pomp and ceremony that have accompanied the swearing-in of these appointees have sent mixed signals to the Ghanaian public. The presence of family members, hometown chiefs, and elaborate celebrations have created the impression that these appointments are personal achievements or fortunes for the benefit of the appointees and their families, rather than a call to serve the nation.
While it is natural for families to celebrate the accomplishments of their loved ones, the spectacle surrounding these events risks reinforcing the perception that public office is a prize to be won, rather than a responsibility to be shouldered.
This culture of celebration around appointments detracts from the seriousness of public service. It shifts the narrative from what the appointee can do for the country to what the position can do for the appointee. This is a dangerous precedent, as it undermines the ethos of servant leadership and perpetuates the notion that public office is a gateway to personal enrichment rather than an opportunity to contribute to national development.
To address this issue, Ghana must return to the fundamental principles of public service. Appointments should be based on merit, not patronage. The primary qualification for any public office should be the ability and willingness to serve the people effectively.
Transparency in the appointment process is also crucial. Ghanaians deserve to know why a particular individual was chosen for a role and how their appointment will benefit the nation.
Additionally, there must be mechanisms to hold appointees accountable. Performance evaluations, regular audits, and clear benchmarks for success should be standard practice.
Appointees who fail to deliver should be replaced, regardless of their political connections. Public office is a privilege, not a right, and it comes with the responsibility to serve the people diligently.
Finally, Ghanaians must demand better from their leaders. The power to effect change lies not only with the government but also with the citizens. By holding leaders accountable and advocating for a more transparent and merit-based system, Ghanaians can reclaim public service as a noble calling rather than a personal achievement.
In conclusion, the current trend of government appointments in Ghana is a cause for concern. When public office is treated as a reward rather than a responsibility, the people suffer.
It is time to refocus on the true purpose of public service: to serve Ghanaians with integrity, accountability, and dedication. Only then can we build a government that truly works for the people, by the people, and of the people.
