Prof. Akosua Adomako Ampofo, a renowned scholar from the University of Ghana’s Institute of African Studies, has spoken out against the practice of awarding national honors to political appointees under the same government they serve.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, January 4, she emphasized that national awards should prioritize excellence over mere good job performance, promoting national values, unity, and inspiring greatness without appearing partisan or self-serving.
Prof. Ampofo expressed concern that about 25% of recent award recipients were ministers or political appointees, suggesting that such honors should come from a different administration to maintain credibility.
She cited former President Kufuor’s appointment of Ibn Chambers, an opposition NDC member, to an ECOWAS executive position as a desirable example of recognizing excellence across party lines.
The professor also criticized the increasing politicization of national awards globally, advocating for a more robust system that allows ordinary citizens to participate in the nomination process.
This, she believes, would boost confidence in the legitimacy of award recipients.
Specifically, Prof. Ampofo questioned the appropriateness of outgoing presidents awarding close government officials, urging the incoming NDC government to set a better example and prioritize fairness, hope, and improvement.