Political patronage? A look at Akuffo-Addo’s last-minute ambassadorial appointments

The role of the Ambassador-at-Large is often ambiguous, and in this case the timing and necessity of the appointment are particularly questionable. With only half a year until the election, what significant impact can Bediatuo realistically achieve in such a short time? These concerns are exacerbated by the fact that his position comes with the same conditions and privileges as those of substantive ambassadors who represent Ghana in other countries. Given the country’s strained economic resources, many are asking whether this is a wise use of state funds.

Moreover, the track record of previous nominees raises additional questions. For example, what happened to Dr. Edward Mahama PNC who was appointed Ambassadorial Representative in 2017? Is he still in his position and what tangible contribution has he made since his appointment? These questions highlight broader skepticism about the effectiveness and accountability of such roles.

Apart from Bediatuo, several other ambassadors were appointed, including Vice Admiral Seth Amoama to Nigeria, Ms. Francisca Ashietey-Oduntun to South Africa, Mr. Ernest Yaw Amporful to Rwanda and others to key positions in Turkey, Belgium, Morocco, Norway, Ethiopia and the African Union. The nominees, who include three High Commissioners, five Ambassadors and one Ambassador General, have been entrusted with the crucial responsibility of representing Ghana in various countries and international organizations. However, the strategic rationale for these appointments remains unclear.

“Your responsibilities at the multilateral level include working with governments you are accredited to help advance our common agenda to combat the scourge of armed conflict, terrorism and violent extremism, the threats of climate change, and the illicit outflow of funds from Africa.” , – the President told the new envoys. But how feasible are all these tasks in the next six months, when this government’s term ends, compared to the economic costs for the country?

Professor Baffour Agyeman-Duah, former Senior Governance Advisor at the United Nations and co-founder of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), suggested that these appointments are aimed at satisfying the ambassadorial ambitions of party loyalists rather than addressing the nation’s diplomatic needs. This claim is shared by many who see these decisions as reckless and selfish, especially in light of the economic challenges facing the country. Critics argue that the government appears indifferent to the serious economic damage it has caused and is instead focused on satisfying parochial desires at the expense of the nation’s well-being.

As the country prepares for upcoming elections, the timing and nature of these appointments underscore the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability in government decisions. To ensure the efficient and responsible use of the country’s resources, the government must put the national interest ahead of political expediency.