Member of Parliament (MP) for Old Tafo, Hon. Ekow Vincent Assafuah, has declared his intention to challenge what he describes as politically motivated job dismissals under the current administration.
The lawmaker has vowed to take legal action against the government, arguing that the recent terminations are unjust and violate constitutional principles.
The MP criticized the government’s handling of employment issues, stating that rather than implementing meaningful economic policies, it appears more focused on political maneuvering.
He pointed out that the much-touted 24-hour economy initiative, promised by President John Mahama’s administration, was meant to create jobs and enhance economic opportunities.
However, according to Assafuah, the government has instead resorted to dismissing workers unfairly, a move that undermines the prospects of young professionals and disrupts the livelihood of many Ghanaian families.
“It is deeply unfortunate and unacceptable that young people, duly recruited by a properly constituted Ghanaian government, are now being dismissed without just cause. This is nothing but political victimization, and I refuse to stand by and watch it happen.”
Hon. Ekow Vincent Assafuah
Hon. Assafuah stressed that, as a young MP, he is committed to defending the rights of those affected.
He firmly stated that legal action would be pursued to prevent the government from wielding unchecked power to terminate hardworking employees unfairly.
He further accused the administration of prioritizing political loyalty over competence, stating that such actions do not foster national development but rather create an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty in the job market.
Calls for Job Expansion Heightened Job Dismissal
Furthermore, Hon. Ekow Vincent Assafuah argued that a government serious about job creation should be expanding employment opportunities rather than displacing workers.
He emphasized that dismissing individuals and replacing them with others does not address unemployment but instead exacerbates economic hardship for affected families.
The mass layoffs, he noted, only deepen the struggles of the youth, many of whom already face high levels of unemployment and job insecurity.
Assafuah emphasized that Ghana is governed by constitutional principles, not arbitrary or politically motivated decisions.
He stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law, insisting that any actions taken by the government, particularly regarding employment decisions, must align with legal and democratic principles.
He further asserted that wrongful terminations must not be overlooked, and the government must be held accountable to ensure fairness, justice, and transparency in public sector employment.
“Our 1992 Constitution abhors the arbitrary exercise of power in a capricious fashion. The Constitution further frowns upon the removal, dismissal, or termination of the employment of persons belonging to the public services without a just cause. Even in private spheres, we are guided by the principles of fair hearing.”
Hon. Ekow Vincent Assafuah
Accordingly, he described the dismissals as dehumanizing and a clear violation of fundamental rights, asserting that such actions should not be tolerated in a democratic state.
Assafuah emphasized that any government that fails to respect the rights of workers sets a dangerous precedent that threatens national stability and economic progress.
Assafuah Pledges Support for Victims
Accordingly, Hon. Ekow Assafuah urged all affected individuals to reach out for legal assistance, reiterating his determination to fight the injustice.
He assured that the New Patriotic Party (NPP), when back in government, will reinstate all those who have been unfairly dismissed.
He encouraged victims to document their cases and come forward, promising to lead a strong legal battle on their behalf.
“We cannot sit and allow the government to abuse us in a manner that does not accord with the due process of law. A future NPP government will reinstate all the affected persons. If you are a victim of this politically motivated dismissal, I urge you to reach out immediately. We will fight this injustice together.”
Hon. Ekow Vincent Assafuah
The MP’s strong stance against what he sees as politically motivated job losses has ignited discussions on the government’s approach to employment policies and governance.
His commitment to legal action may set the stage for a significant political and legal battle in the coming months.
Many observers believe this could be a litmus test for how far Ghana’s judiciary will go in protecting employees from political interference in public sector employment.
As the debate continues, the question remains: Will the legal challenge bring justice to those affected, or will political forces override the call for fairness? Only time will tell.
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