NPP picks ministers based on loyalty, not competence – Prof. Antwi

Governance expert Professor Enoch Antwi has emphasized the importance of collaboration between government ministers and career civil servants, warning that political appointees who disregard experienced technocrats risk failure.

Speaking on 3FM’s Hot Edition with Alfred Ocansey on February 6, he cited former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta as an example of how failing to rely on technocrats can be detrimental.

“If you’re a minister, don’t go in thinking you know it all. The technocrats have been there for decades and can help you succeed,” he advised.

Professor Antwi argued that while ministers come and go with political administrations, civil servants remain in their roles, accumulating valuable institutional knowledge that can guide decision-making.

He noted that some ministers, particularly those who believe their expertise outweighs the experience of career professionals, often find themselves isolated.

“The problem someone like Ofori-Atta had at the Ministry of Finance was that he thought he knew everything, and because of that, those technocrats just watched him fail,” he stated.

His remarks come at a time when discussions about governance and ministerial effectiveness are intensifying, particularly in light of recent ministerial reshuffles.

President John Dramani Mahama’s administration has been under scrutiny as it seeks to rebuild public confidence and navigate economic challenges.

Professor Antwi highlighted a fundamental difference between the two major political parties, the NDC and NPP, regarding how they appoint ministers.

He suggested that while the NDC often selects individuals who have climbed the ranks within their fields, the NPP prioritizes political loyalty over competence.

“NDC has always worked with those who’ve risen through the ranks. NPP, on the other hand, picks people based on political loyalty, and that can lead to conflict,” he asserted.

He further stressed that the effectiveness of a ministry—and by extension, the government—depends on the people placed in key positions.

“The success of any institution is based on the people you hire,” he concluded.

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