Former United Nations Governance Advisor, Professor Baffour Agyeman-Duah, has raised concerns over the current political appointment system, arguing that it undermines development and professionalism.
According to the professor, the widespread practice of political patronage where incoming governments replace officials with their own supporters has been a long-standing issue that is deeply embedded within the system.
“If you look at it critically, in my humble view, it doesn’t make sense to do that,” Professor Baffour said on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday.
“But currently, the system allows it to happen, so it is not about blaming individuals like President Mahama or anyone else; it’s the system that they inherit.” he added
The professor pointed out that this practice has persisted across different governments, with the common expectation that once a new administration takes over, it is time for their supporters, often referred to as “our boys,” to fill positions of power regardless of the performance of those already in office.
He further emphasized the negative consequences of such political practices, especially when tied to national development.
“If you are going to attach that to development, it is a serious matter,” he said, suggesting that this system of political appointments can derail the progress of a nation.
Drawing on his experiences in other countries, Professor Baffour highlighted an alternative approach where politics and development are clearly separated.
“I happen to be in a country where I am speaking from (Thailand), where they have cleverly divorced politics from development. The politicians can do all they want, but when it comes to development, implementation policies, and all, it is the civil service that has developed professionalism, and they carry on,” he explained
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