2 months ago
Alhassan Suhuyini, the Tamale North Member of Parliament (MP) and a member of the subcommittee on the Transition Team, has stated that all appointments made after the December 7 elections will be subject to review and could be reversed when the new government takes office on January 7. This announcement comes as part of the ongoing preparations for the transition of power between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Suhuyini, in an interview with Citi FM, cautioned the outgoing government against rushing to make appointments and promotions during this transition period. He expressed concern that such actions could undermine the credibility and legitimacy of these decisions if they are perceived to be politically motivated. Suhuyini called on individuals who might benefit from these late appointments not to allow themselves to be caught in a political trap that could harm their professional reputations in the long run.
"I am cautioning those who are beneficiaries of these actions not to allow them to damage their genuine case for promotion. You may have a legitimate case for advancement, but if you allow these last-minute actions to take place, it will be difficult when the new administration comes into power," Suhuyini warned.
He further emphasized that any promotions or appointments made during this period that appear to be untimely or inappropriate would be scrutinized and could be reversed once the new government assumes office. "Any untoward promotion or appointment, particularly during this transition period, will be reviewed and potentially reversed," Suhuyini added.
This statement from Suhuyini follows the appointment of the transition team, which was established under the Presidential (Transition) Act, 2012 (Act 845). The Act provides the framework for the orderly handover of power from one government to another, ensuring a smooth transition. The National Transition Team, which is a constitutional body, has the critical responsibility of overseeing this handover process.
The first official meeting of the National Transition Team took place on December 11 at the Jubilee House in Accra, marking the beginning of the formal transition process. During this meeting, key discussions were held regarding the roles and responsibilities of the incoming and outgoing teams, ensuring a peaceful and organized transfer of power. The transition process will see the NDC government take over from the NPP administration, following the conclusion of the December 2024 elections.
Suhuyini’s statement is part of the broader effort to ensure that the transition of power is not only smooth but also free from undue political interference. The review of appointments and promotions made in the final days of the outgoing administration is one of the critical elements of this effort, aimed at preventing any attempts to skew government appointments in favor of political cronies or individuals close to the outgoing administration.
The MP also expressed his belief that the transition process would be a critical moment for both parties—the outgoing NPP and the incoming NDC—to work together for the benefit of the country. The National Transition Team, which includes representatives from both political parties, will collaborate to ensure that the handover process is transparent and efficient.
As the country prepares for the shift in political power, Suhuyini's comments highlight the need for vigilance and fairness in the handling of public appointments during this sensitive period. The outgoing government, he stressed, should exercise caution in making appointments and promotions that could potentially be seen as politically motivated or as attempts to solidify its influence over state institutions after it has lost power.
Looking ahead to January 7, when the new government assumes office, the incoming NDC administration is expected to focus on reviewing and potentially reversing any questionable appointments made during the transition period. This move is part of a broader commitment to ensure that public sector appointments are based on merit and that the new government can set its own agenda without interference from the outgoing administration.
Suhuyini’s statements have been met with mixed reactions. Supporters of the NDC welcome the caution against hasty appointments, believing it will ensure fairness and accountability. On the other hand, some critics of the NDC argue that the focus on reversing appointments could lead to unnecessary political friction and instability. However, the overall sentiment is that a transparent and fair transition process is essential for the future of Ghana’s democratic system.
The appointment of the transition team and the call for a review of recent appointments are expected to play a significant role in shaping the political landscape of the country as it moves forward. Both parties will need to demonstrate a commitment to national unity and stability as the power transition unfolds.
The National Transition Team is expected to continue its work in the coming weeks, preparing for a smooth and peaceful handover of power on January 7. As Ghana navigates this critical phase in its political history, the focus will be on ensuring that the transition is as smooth and transparent as possible, with all appointments and actions being thoroughly examined to maintain the integrity of the process.
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