Promotions in the security services will be based on merit under NDC - Mahama

Flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has personnel in the various security agencies that the next NDC government will ensure that personnel are promoted based on merit and not any other considerations.

He accused the current New Patriotic Party government of politicising the country's security agencies.

"We have dedicated professionals, patriotic serving officers, and men and women in our security agencies who are appalled by the needless politicisation this government has injected into the security services," he stated. 

In addition, he said, "To all professional and decent-minded security men and women who yearn for the restoration of the glory days of being a member of the security services, you can be assured that ours will be a government that ensures promotions are based on merit and will correct injustices in promotions across all the security services."

Mr. Mahama made these comments during a governance forum in Accra on Thursday evening, October 31, 2024.

Dubbed: "Resetting Ghana for good governance and accountability", the forum offered the NDC's leader the opportunity to speak on various issues affecting the country's democratic governance system.

The NDC leader gave an assurance that the next NDC government will ensure that no unqualified person finds himself in the security services.

"Be assured that the glory days of our security services under a government that will not infuse the services with unqualified personnel is coming," Mr Mahama said, urging the personnel in the security services to vote massively for the NDC during the special voting day on Monday, December 2, 2024. 

He added, "I am confident the Special Voters will herald the tone for my resounding victory in this year’s elections. Like millions of Ghanaians, this category of voters feels the hardships the economy imposes."

He said to ensure the security and safety of all citizens and businesses, the next NDC government will further review the compensation package for personnel who lose their lives or get injured in the line of duty.

"We will establish new military installations, focusing on border areas and the new regions, to prevent terrorist attacks and ensure rapid response; implement cyber security measures to protect government systems, critical infrastructure, people and businesses; and harmonise and address disparities in salaries, remunerations, and other conditions of service," Mr Mahama added. 
 
He also raised concern over the huge shortfalls in both residential and office accommodation within the services, saying "These we will aggressively tackle from my first day in office."

He further said the next NDC government will enhance medical packages for serving and retired personnel and their families; ensure continuous review of UN operational allowances; review the appointment of the heads of security agencies, ensure parliamentary oversight over security and intelligence agencies and actively engage the services of private security organisations who adhere to decent work and provide fair wages for their employees.