The assertion that Ghana’s civil service operates independently of political influence has been challenged by private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu, who contends that the service is deeply intertwined with partisan politics. This contention arises amidst the controversy surrounding the dismissal and subsequent reinstatement of over 100 employees at the Bank of Ghana, a situation that has sparked renewed anxieties regarding political interference in public institutions. Kpebu argues that successive governments have eroded the neutrality of the civil service by effectively treating it as an arm of their political operations. He points to statements and writings of high-ranking officials that reveal a partisan approach to the civil service, where its role is perceived as supporting the incumbent government, rather than operating as an independent entity.
Kpebu’s assertion centers on the idea that political allegiance, rather than merit or institutional loyalty, often dictates the career trajectory and influence of civil servants. He suggests that when a government changes, civil servants who aligned with the previous administration’s policies may find themselves removed from their positions if their actions don’t align with the new government’s manifesto. This creates a precarious situation where civil servants are incentivized to prioritize political loyalty over their institutional roles, ultimately compromising the integrity and independence of the civil service. This, Kpebu argues, undermines the supposed neutrality of the service and transforms it into a tool for political maneuvering.
While acknowledging that some degree of political influence is inherent within a democratic system, Kpebu emphasizes that the level of interference in Ghana’s civil service is deeply concerning and poses a significant threat to institutional integrity. He attributes this pervasive pattern to the ingrained political culture and fundamental aspects of human nature, suggesting that complete eradication of political influence may be an unattainable ideal. However, this acknowledgement does not diminish the urgency of addressing the issue and implementing safeguards against excessive political control.
Kpebu’s observations contribute to the burgeoning national conversation surrounding the necessity of strengthening institutional safeguards and rebuilding public trust in state institutions. The recent Bank of Ghana incident underscores the vulnerability of public institutions to political manipulation and the potential consequences of such interference. The arbitrary dismissal and subsequent reinstatement of employees raise questions about due process, transparency, and the criteria employed in making such decisions. This incident, coupled with Kpebu’s analysis, highlights the precarious position of civil servants who may face repercussions for not aligning with the ruling party’s agenda.
The implications of a politically influenced civil service are far-reaching. It can lead to inefficiencies, a lack of accountability, and a decline in the quality of public services. When appointments and promotions are based on political connections rather than merit, the most qualified individuals may be overlooked, resulting in a less competent and effective workforce. Furthermore, a politicized civil service can undermine public trust in government institutions, as citizens perceive decisions to be driven by partisan interests rather than the public good. This erosion of trust can have detrimental effects on democratic governance and social cohesion.
As calls for greater accountability and reform intensify, Kpebu’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to insulate state institutions from undue political influence. Protecting the independence of the civil service is crucial for ensuring good governance, promoting efficient public service delivery, and upholding the principles of democracy. Implementing effective safeguards, such as strengthening institutional autonomy, promoting merit-based appointments and promotions, and enhancing transparency and accountability mechanisms, is essential to restoring public trust and ensuring the integrity of Ghana’s public institutions. Addressing this deep-rooted issue requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and the public, to create a more robust and independent civil service that serves the interests of all citizens, not just the ruling political party.
