Ex-Employees Challenge Legality of Mass Terminations
Forty former public sector employees have filed a lawsuit against the Government of Ghana, alleging wrongful and politically motivated dismissals. The plaintiffs claim their terminations violated constitutional provisions and due process.
Dismissals Linked to Post-Election Directive
The lawsuit stems from a February 10, 2025, directive issued by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, which ordered the revocation of all appointments made after December 7, 2024—the date of Ghana’s presidential and parliamentary elections. The directive cited good governance principles as justification, claiming that last-minute appointments by the previous NPP administration were irregular.
Legal Action Against Government Agencies
The dismissed workers, represented by Dame and Partners, have sued the Attorney General and six state institutions, including:
- Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)
- National Lottery Authority (NLA)
- Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA)
- Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA)
- Ghana Shippers Council
- National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA)
The plaintiffs argue that neither the President nor the Chief of Staff has the authority to remove public servants outside the conditions outlined in Article 191(b) of the Constitution. They seek a court ruling to declare the terminations unlawful, an order for reinstatement, compensation, and a ban on further political purges in the civil service.
Political and Public Reactions
Tafo MP, Ekow Vincent Assafuah, has strongly condemned the dismissals, calling them a blatant act of injustice. He estimates that over 5,000 public servants have lost their jobs under the Mahama administration, despite many having undergone rigorous recruitment processes before their appointments.
“These individuals went through the right processes to secure their jobs. Their dismissals are purely political, and it is unacceptable. But we believe in the rule of law, and I have no doubt that justice will be served,” Assafuah stated.
Legal Battle Expected to Test Executive Power
The case is expected to be a landmark legal battle, challenging the extent of executive authority in public sector appointments. As political tensions rise and opposition voices grow louder, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for governance and employment practices in Ghana.
The government is yet to officially respond to the lawsuit.
Source: CNR