The AfriKan Continental Union Consult (ACUC) has called on the government to make performance, competence and measurable results the basis for any ministerial reshuffle.
The group said changes in government should be used to strengthen the delivery of public services and improve governance rather than simply moving ministers between portfolios.
In an open letter to President John Dramani Mahama, copied to the Speaker of Parliament, the Chief Justice, the President of the National House of Chiefs and religious leaders, ACUC Leader Mr Benjamin Anyagre Aziginaateeg said every ministerial change should have a clear purpose and expected outcome.
He said where a minister was transferred after demonstrating success in one ministry, the government should clearly explain the reasons for the new assignment and the improvements expected from the change.
According to him, transparency in such decisions would enable citizens to understand the rationale behind ministerial appointments and assess whether the changes were producing the intended results.
Mr Aziginaateeg, however, raised concerns about the practice of moving ministers whose performance had been unsatisfactory to other ministries.
He argued that such transfers could weaken accountability and create the impression that political appointments were being circulated among a limited group of individuals regardless of their performance.
“Underperformance should have consequences, and excellence should have meaning,” he said.
The ACUC leader stressed that political office should be treated as a responsibility to the nation rather than a reward for political loyalty, longevity or service to a political party.
He said the government should also broaden its search for capable individuals, noting that Ghana had many citizens with the experience, competence and integrity required to serve in public office.
Mr Aziginaateeg cautioned against repeatedly relying on the same personalities and approaches while expecting significantly different results.
He said ministers collectively contributed to the success or failure of an administration and should therefore be assessed on the basis of their actual contribution to national development.
He urged the presidency to consider competence, integrity, delivery capacity and measurable performance when deciding whether to retain, transfer or remove ministers.
According to him, such decisions should be driven primarily by the national interest rather than political convenience.
Mr Aziginaateeg said a reshuffle would only be meaningful if it resulted in better government performance and improved outcomes for citizens.
“Ghana needs fewer political arrangements and more measurable results. The citizens are watching. The electorate is ultimately the judge,” he stressed.
