The recent public sector firings in Ghana have been influenced by several factors, including political transitions, economic challenges, and efforts to address perceived inefficiencies.
Historically, changes in government have often led to the dismissal of public sector employees appointed lately by previous administrations. This practice aims to align public institutions with the policies and personnel of the new leadership.
For instance, the Akufo-Addo administration, upon taking office in 2017, dismissed numerous workers lately recruited under the Mahama administration, including personnel from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), and the Youth Employment Agency (YEA).
In a similar vein, recent directives have led to the termination of young Ghanaians’ employment in the public sector, a move criticized by groups like the Patriotic Youth Alliance as unjust and contradictory to promises of economic reform.
Ghana’s economic difficulties have necessitated austerity measures, including spending cuts and restructuring of public services.
In 2023, the government announced a 30 per cent reduction in discretionary budget spending and salary cuts for top officials to alleviate budgetary pressures. Such measures could lead to job losses as the government seeks to reduce expenditure.
The recurring issue of “last-minute” public sector recruitments by outgoing administrations has prompted calls for legal reforms. Dr Kofi Bentil, a senior Vice President of IMANI Africa, advocated for legislation to ban or regulate such practices to prevent subsequent dismissals and public dissatisfaction.
The termination of public sector appointments has also led to legal challenges. Henry Nana Boakye, the National Organiser of the opposition New Patriotic Party(NPP), filed a lawsuit against the government’s actions, seeking redress for what he perceives as unjust dismissals.
Additionally, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia condemned these dismissals, urging the President to reverse the “unfair” terminations and uphold legal protections for all citizens.
In summary, recent public sector firings in Ghana are the result of a complex interplay of political changes, economic constraints, and efforts to enhance efficiency within public institutions.
