Professor Akosua Adomako Ampofo from the University of Ghana’s Institute of African Studies has criticised the practice of awarding national honours to political appointees under the same government that appointed them.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile with Samson Lardy on Saturday, 4 January 2025, Prof. Ampofo stressed that national awards should be impartial and focused on recognising excellence, rather than rewarding political loyalty.

“National awards should recognise excellence, not just doing a good job,” she said. “These awards should promote national values, foster unity, and inspire others. They must not be viewed as partisan or self-serving.”

Prof. Ampofo expressed concern over the high proportion of political figures among the recent award recipients, noting that approximately 25% of the honorees were ministers or political appointees. While she did not entirely oppose awarding political appointees, she argued that such honours should not be bestowed by the same government under which they served.

She cited an example from former President John Agyekum Kufuor’s administration, where opposition member Ibn Chambers was appointed to an ECOWAS executive position, describing it as a form of recognition for excellence that transcended party lines. “This is the type of recognition we should seek—excellence so exceptional that even governments of opposing parties acknowledge it,” she said.

Prof. Ampofo also raised concerns about the increasing politicisation of national awards globally, suggesting that a more inclusive system, where ordinary citizens have a role in the nomination process, could improve the legitimacy of the awards.

Specifically, she questioned the appropriateness of outgoing presidents awarding honours to close government officials, including vice presidents, arguing that such practices could undermine the credibility of the awards.

She urged the incoming National Democratic Congress (NDC) government to set a better example, emphasising that the public expects fairness and integrity in such processes. “As we enter a new year, this is an opportunity for the NDC to move forward and avoid repeating these mistakes,” Prof. Ampofo concluded.

Source:TheDotNews