President John Dramani Mahama is facing intense criticism for his government’s mass dismissal of public sector workers, a move that has been described as “reckless” and “a dangerous precedent” by the Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM).
The dismissals, which affect workers employed by the previous government, have been widely condemned by civil society organizations, labour unions, and opposition politicians.
The controversy began when the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, issued a directive to annul all public sector appointments made after December 7, 2024.
This move was seen as a clear attempt to purge the public sector of workers associated with the previous government.
The CDM has denounced the dismissals as a “blatant disregard for due process, job security, and fairness in governance”.
According to reports, the directive has resulted in the dismissal of hundreds of public sector workers, including senior managers, doctors, nurses, and teachers.
Many of these workers have been left in a state of uncertainty, with some facing financial hardship and others struggling to find new employment.
The Minority in Parliament has also slammed the President’s actions, with Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin accusing President Mahama of setting a “dangerous precedent” and “breaking his campaign promises”.
The Minority has called on President Mahama to revoke the directive and protect the jobs of public sector workers.
Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has also weighed in on the issue, criticizing the government’s actions as “unfair” and “a threat to Ghana’s democracy”.
He has called on President Mahama to reverse the dismissals and protect the rights of affected workers.
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has also joined the chorus of condemnation, urging President Mahama to revoke the directive and protect the jobs of public sector workers.
The TUC warned that the dismissals could lead to a breakdown in public services and undermine the country’s economic development.
-BY Daniel Bampoe
