President Mahama’s Appointment of Registrar Sparks Controversy
The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association (CLOGSAG), Edmund Acquaye, has raised concerns over President John Dramani Mahama’s alleged failure to follow due process in appointing the Registrar for Births and Deaths.
CLOGSAG’s Stand on the Appointment
CLOGSAG has been vocal in its opposition, even embarking on an industrial strike to protest the government’s refusal to revoke the appointment of Samuel Adom Botchwey. The association argues that Botchwey has strong political ties to the National Democratic Congress (NDC), making the appointment controversial.
Legal Concerns Over the Appointment Process
Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Monday, March 10, 2025, Acquaye emphasized that while the president has the authority to appoint officials, such appointments must align with statutory regulations.
“The government’s right to appoint is vested in the president by the advice of the councils; the civil council and the local government councils. Ask whether this particular appointment went through this required procedure. It didn’t. So, there is a first-step breach of rules over there. That is where the problem is,” Acquaye stated.
The Role of the Public Service Commission
According to CLOGSAG, the appointment of a Registrar for Births and Deaths is classified under civil service positions, meaning it requires consultation with both the Civil and Public Service Councils, as well as the Public Service Commission (Public Services Commission).
The Implications of Ignoring Due Process
Failure to adhere to these guidelines raises concerns over transparency and political neutrality within public service roles. Experts argue that such appointments should be free from political influence to maintain institutional integrity.