By: Daniel Bampoe
More than 100 employees of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) have reportedly been dismissed in a controversial mass termination exercise that has sparked political tension and raised concerns about partisanship within public institutions.
The affected staff, most of whom were reportedly employed during the tenure of the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, received formal termination letters from the BoG last week.
The dismissals, effective June 23, 2025, cited the failure of employees to successfully complete their six-month probation period as the official reason for their termination.
A copy of one such letter, signed by Thelma E. Randolph-Akushie, Head of the Human Resource and Capacity Development Department, stated:
“Management regrets to inform you that your appointment cannot be confirmed. Consequently, your employment with the Bank will be terminated effective Monday, June 23, 2025… you will be paid one (1) month’s salary in lieu of notice.”
However, critics say the rationale presented in the dismissal letters is a façade.
According to inside sources and political observers, the terminations are politically motivated and aimed at creating vacancies to recruit sympathizers of the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.
One insider, who requested anonymity for fear of retaliation, alleged that the mass sackings are being orchestrated under the direction of Dr. Johnson Asiama, the current BoG Governor, who was appointed by President Mahama following the NDC’s return to power in the 2024 general elections.
“They are targeting those of us who came in under the previous government. This is a clear witch-hunt,” the source said. “Forget about the so-called probation excuse—they’re clearing us out to make way for their own people.”
The move has drawn criticism from sections of the public and civil society groups, who say it reflects a troubling pattern of politicizing state institutions.
Analysts have warned that such actions could undermine the independence and professionalism of the central bank.
This is not the first time the BoG has faced political scrutiny.
In past administrations, the bank has come under fire over allegations of politically influenced appointments and contract awards.
The affected staff have yet to indicate whether they will seek legal redress or appeal the decision, but labour experts suggest they may have grounds to challenge the terminations, especially if due process was not followed or if there is evidence of political discrimination.
