Nicholas Gborse, a governance analyst based in the Volta Region, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to terminate the appointments of individuals who have neglected to declare their assets within the required timeframe.
Gborse asserts that the failure of certain appointees to comply with this directive reflects a blatant disregard for the President’s authority. In an interview with the Ghana News Agency on Sunday, May 4, he expressed astonishment that some officials struggle with the asset declaration process.
He questioned whether this issue stems from ignorance regarding their assets or a conscious choice to disregard the President’s directive, suggesting that such behavior indicates an attempt to conceal significant information from the public.
“The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has many capable individuals who could easily fill these positions,” he stated. “Those who are unwilling to follow the President’s orders should step aside for others who will.”
Gborse recommended that President Mahama grant the non-compliant appointees a grace period of two to three weeks to fulfill the asset declaration requirement. He warned that any further non-compliance should result in immediate dismissal and replacement.
He cautioned that the ongoing defiance of high-ranking officials could be exploited by opposition parties in the forthcoming general elections. “Swift and decisive action by the party is essential to prevent any potential electoral setbacks,” he emphasized.
Highlighting the significance of accountability, Gborse reiterated the need for transparency and adherence to directives in government appointments. He urged the President to take a strong stance against those who disobey to reaffirm his commitment to good governance. “The President’s directive for appointees to declare their assets was issued in January, with a deadline set for the end of March. All appointees should have complied with this directive,” he noted.
Gborse stressed that the party’s reputation could suffer significantly if those who violate directives are not held accountable. He encouraged appointees to act promptly to demonstrate their commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective governance.
He concluded with a clear message: “President Mahama should issue a final ultimatum for compliance. If they fail to meet this requirement, they should be dismissed and replaced by competent individuals willing to adhere to the President’s directives.”
Meanwhile, reports gathered indicate that several government appointees, including Nathan Kofi Boakye, Director of Operations at the Presidency; Seth Emmanuel Terkper, Presidential Adviser on the Economy; Naana Yaa Jantuah, Presidential Staffer; and Charles Kipo, Director-General of the National Investigations Bureau, are among those who have defaulted on the asset declaration directive.
