The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has condemned President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to terminate the appointments of public and civil servants en masse, describing the action as unconstitutional and a threat to Ghana’s democratic governance.
In a statement issued on Sunday, CDM denounced the dismissals of senior managers at the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, as well as employees from key institutions such as the Ghana Education Service, Ghana Health Service, and the National Health Insurance Authority.
The organization accused the government of violating due process, job security, and principles of fairness in governance.
“This reckless exercise of executive power is not only legally questionable but also socially and economically disastrous,” the statement declared.
CDM’s appeal
CDM called on labour unions, civil society organizations, and stakeholders to resist what it termed an “unjust exercise of executive power.”
The group urged organizations such as the Trades Union Congress (TUC), the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG), the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), and the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to take a firm stand against the dismissals.
“Today, it may be government workers, but tomorrow, it could be any Ghanaian suffering from political victimization. President Mahama must do the right thing—uphold the Constitution, respect labour laws, and ensure job security for all. The future of Ghana depends on it,” the statement emphasized.
CDM cited sections of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution that protect public servants from arbitrary dismissal, particularly: Article 191 (1): “A public officer shall not be dismissed or removed from office or reduced in rank or otherwise punished without just cause.” And Article 296 (a) and (b): Discretionary power must be exercised fairly, without bias, resentment, or political prejudice.
The organization also referred to Ghana’s Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), which mandates fair procedures in employment terminations, noting that the dismissals fail to meet legal and ethical standards.
CDM warned that the president’s decision could destabilize the public sector, setting a precedent where future administrations may also engage in mass terminations.
The statement outlined several negative consequences:
- Political Discrimination: The move suggests that only National Democratic Congress (NDC) affiliates are fit to hold public positions.
- Disruption of Government Services: Sudden dismissals of skilled professionals could impair essential public services.
- Legal Battles: Affected workers may seek redress in court, potentially leading to costly compensation claims against the government.
- Economic Hardship: With Ghana already facing economic difficulties, mass job losses could further strain the livelihoods of affected workers and their families.
CDM appealed to President Mahama to halt the dismissals and reinstate affected workers.
“A true leader governs for all citizens, not just party loyalists. We urge President Mahama to reconsider his actions and prioritize national unity over political purges,” the statement urged.