The Public Service Workers Union (PSWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) Ghana, National Identification Authority (NIA) Division, has made a bold move by calling on President Nana Akufo-Addo to remove the NIA Executive Secretary, Professor Kenneth Attafuah.
The call comes in the wake of a petition dated July 1 and signed by 920 NIA staff members, citing a complete loss of trust in Mr. Attafuah’s leadership due to unfair labor practices.
The document detailed multiple allegations including unfair labor practices, violations of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) law, and poor corporate governance. The staff members emphasized that their decision was not taken lightly, but was necessary due to the detrimental impact of Professor Attafuah’s leadership on the institution and its employees.
“The staff and union’s decision to petition your high office for the removal of Professor Kenneth Agyemang Attafuah is grounded on unfair labor practices contrary to the labor laws and Human Resource Manual and Policy Framework for Ghana Public Services.”
Public Service Workers Union (PSWU)
The petition highlighted violations of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) law, raising serious concerns about compliance with statutory regulations.
Allegations of a poor corporate governance structure within the NIA were also brought to light, indicating systemic issues in the management of the authority.
The petition accused Professor Attafuah of engaging in selective and administrative injustice in the recruitment, placement, and promotion of staff, raising questions about transparency and fairness in the organization.
Furthermore, the petitioners expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of innovative ideas to manage the administration of the authority, signaling a need for fresh leadership and strategic vision.
The staff expressed their concerns about the potential harm and reputational damage that could arise from Professor Attafuah’s continued stay in office. They emphasized that the loss of trust in his administration has significantly impacted their ability to work with confidence.
Staff Confidence and Institutional Integrity
The petitioners strongly believe that the removal of Professor Attafuah is essential for restoring staff confidence and the NIA’s reputation. They argue that only with a change in leadership can the authority regain its integrity and fulfill its mandate effectively.
“His staff have absolutely lost trust in his administration and can no longer work with him in confidence. These, coupled with infractions in the labor laws and SSNIT Acts, are enough justifications for his immediate removal from office without further delays.”
Public Service Workers Union (PSWU)
The staff members further suggested that the removal of Professor Attafuah would not only resolve existing issues but also prevent potential future harm to the organization. They stressed that new leadership could bring about much-needed changes and innovations to the NIA.
The petitioners stressed that the removal of Professor Attafuah from office would not only restore confidence among the working staff but also reignite the authority’s reputation. They believe that a change in leadership is essential to address the current challenges and to pave the way for a renewed sense of trust and efficiency within the NIA.
The PSWU’s call for the removal of Professor Kenneth Attafuah from his position as the NIA Executive Secretary marks a critical moment for the NIA and its staff. The allegations of unfair labor practices, poor governance, and lack of innovative leadership have led to a significant loss of trust among employees.
The petitioners hope that their appeal to President Akufo-Addo will bring about the necessary changes to restore confidence and improve the functioning of the NIA. The unfolding events will be closely watched, as they have significant implications for public sector governance and employee relations in Ghana.
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