The Government of Ghana has firmly defended its decision to appoint Samuel Adom Botchway as the Registrar of the Births and Deaths Registry, insisting that the appointment is fully compliant with existing laws. This defense comes in the wake of a nationwide strike declared by the Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG), slated for Thursday, February 20, 2025, to protest Mr. Botchway’s continued tenure.
CLOGSAG has expressed dissatisfaction with the appointment, alleging political bias and accusing the government of reneging on previous assurances to remove Mr. Botchway from office. The association maintains that his appointment undermines the principles of neutrality within the civil service.
In response, government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu stated unequivocally that Mr. Botchway’s appointment is legally sound and does not infringe on any statutory provisions. “The government has acted within its legal mandate, and there is no basis for the claims of impropriety,” he said during a press briefing on Wednesday. However, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu also emphasized the government’s willingness to engage with CLOGSAG in dialogue to address their concerns and find an amicable resolution to the impasse.
The strike, if it proceeds, is expected to disrupt operations within various public institutions, creating potential challenges for service delivery nationwide. CLOGSAG has urged its members to remain resolute and prepare for industrial action until their grievances are addressed.
Media Concerns Spark Further Debate
In a related development, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu responded to allegations made by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) regarding attacks on journalists during the John Mahama administration. The GJA, in a press conference held on Tuesday, February 18, condemned acts of violence and intimidation against media personnel, calling on the government to uphold press freedom.
Dismissing the claims as unfounded, the government spokesperson assured the public of the administration’s commitment to safeguarding media rights. “The government is dedicated to fostering an environment where journalists can operate freely and without fear,” he added.
A Nation on Edge
With tensions rising between the government and CLOGSAG, the situation highlights broader issues concerning public sector governance and political neutrality. Stakeholders are watching closely to see if the government and CLOGSAG can reach a compromise before the scheduled strike disrupts public services.
As the February 20 deadline looms, Ghanaians are left pondering the implications of these developments on both the civil service and the broader political landscape.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
