A recent directive issued by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has sparked concerns among civil society organizations, particularly CDS Africa, which advocates for good governance, the rule of law, and labor rights.
The directive, dated February 10, 2025, instructs heads of government institutions to annul all public service appointments made after December 7, 2024, citing non-compliance with established good governance practices and principles.
CDS Africa has expressed deep concern over the directive, arguing that it raises serious constitutional and legal implications. The organization asserts that public service appointments are governed by the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, which ensures fairness, meritocracy, and institutional stability. The blanket annulment of appointments, CDS Africa claims, contradicts established legal principles and may lead to concerns of due process, fairness, and non-discrimination.
Furthermore, CDS Africa highlights that Ghana’s Labor Act, 2003 (Act 651) mandates that employment terminations must follow due process, including prior notice or compensation in lieu of notice. The mass revocation of appointments without adhering to these legal requirements may constitute wrongful termination, exposing the government to litigation risks from affected employees.
The organization urges the government to reconsider the directive, recommending that:
– Compliance with the 1992 Constitution: Conduct case-by-case reviews of affected appointments rather than issuing a blanket annulment directive.
– Adherence to the Labor Act: Provide due notice or compensation to affected employees in accordance with legal provisions.
– Upholding Supreme Court Precedents: Prohibit terminations based solely on political transitions.
– Stakeholder Engagement: Develop a transparent framework for reviewing public service appointments in line with constitutional principles, engaging labor unions and civil society organizations.
CDS Africa emphasizes that governance decisions should prioritize legal and constitutional obligations over political expediency, ensuring that Ghana remains a beacon of democratic governance and the rule of law.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
