We need clear guidelines for public sector appointments — Experts

A governance expert, Dr Samuel Kofi Darkwa, is advocating the establishment of clear guidelines and timelines for public sector appointments and recruitments to ensure decisions are made based on merit rather than political advantages.

This, he said, would address the recurring issue of appointments and recruitments into the public sector made by successive governments every eight years when there is a change of power.

"It is time to address this issue once and for all. As Ghana considers a constitutional review, tackling this persistent problem is crucial,” Dr Darkwa emphasised.

 He was optimistic that such reforms would contribute to a more stable and transparent public sector, where employment is determined by competence and necessity rather than political affiliation.

Context

Dr Darkwa, a governance fellow at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), made the call in an interview with the Daily Graphic following the recent directive by the Chief of Staff to revoke all public sector appointments and recruitments made after December 7, 2024.

The issue has generated a heated debate that has drawn various suggestions and criticisms amid concerns that the directive may be motivated by political considerations rather than a genuine effort to promote transparency and accountability.

While the government claims the move aims to promote fairness and transparency, it has faced strong criticism, particularly from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).

A directive issued by the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, dated February 10, 2025 was titled: “Revocation of appointments and recruitments made after December 7, 2024.”

Implications

Dr Darkwa said the implications of the directive extended beyond the individuals who were directly affected, adding that it also posed a risk to the stability and fairness of public sector recruitment in the country.

“Such appointments can create financial burdens for incoming governments, as outgoing administrations may commit them to unforeseen obligations, thereby constraining their fiscal flexibility.”

“This recurring issue highlights systemic challenges that warrant immediate attention,” he observed.

Dr Darkwa argued that the government could help restore public trust in the recruitment process and ensure that the public sector effectively served all Ghanaians, regardless of their political leanings.

Security services

On the other hand, the Minister of the Interior's directive to investigate recruitment processes within the security services has received mixed reactions.

A Political Science Lecturer at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), Gilbert Arhinful Aidoo, commended the move as a step towards transparency and accountability but said it raised concerns about the potential consequences on national security.

Mr Aidoo emphasised that the investigation must be conducted swiftly and transparently to avoid unintended negative consequences.

"The investigation has the potential to restore public confidence in the recruitment process, which has been marred by reports of favouritism, corruption and political interference," Mr Aidoo said.