The Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Council of Elders in South Africa, Mr. Benjamin Kofi Quashie, has called for amendments to Ghana’s Transition Act to reflect the country’s governance structure and prevent disputes over post-election employment annulments.

 Mr. Quashie defended the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah’s, decision to nullify government recruitments and employment made after the December 7, 2024 elections, stating that the move was lawful and based on precedent.

He dismissed the New Patriotic Party (NPP)'s criticism of the annulments, asserting that the opposition’s stance on the matter was misguided and inconsequential.

Reflecting on previous government transitions, Mr. Quashie reminded the NPP of former Senior Minister Yaw Osafo-Maafo’s statements on similar actions when the NPP assumed office in 2017. He argued that amending the Transition Act would prevent recurring disputes and ensure a clear framework for handling employment issues after elections.

“The Chief of Staff’s actions were not arbitrary but based on thorough investigations and a report,” he stated.

“Most of the recruitments were done in bad faith, with NPP supporters being placed in key institutions, which could undermine our agenda for national development.”

Mr. Quashie further clarified that not all appointments would be annulled, stating that merit-based recruitments would be upheld once the report is reviewed.

“If the report confirms that individuals were recruited fairly, their appointments will stand.

But where party foot soldiers have been placed in strategic positions for political gain, the Chief of Staff cannot be blamed for taking corrective action,” he emphasized.

He concluded by reiterating the need for urgent legislative amendments to streamline post-election administrative transitions and prevent governance disruptions.

He made this call while contributing to a panel discussion on Accra-based Joy Prime on 12th February 2025