Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC), Prof. Kobby Mensah, has defended President John Dramani Mahama’s approach to political appointments, describing it as merit-based.
Speaking on Starr Showbiz with Feeling Daddy on Starr 103.5 FM on Saturday, July 12, Prof. Mensah dismissed claims that political appointments under the Mahama administration were handed out as rewards, stressing instead that the President prioritises competence.
“The President feels that people who can help achieve the goals are actually given the opportunity to do that,” he stated. “It’s not to say that I’m the only competent person, but of course, not everybody can actually be in government. You should understand that.”
Prof. Mensah, who described himself as “very left-leaning,” acknowledged that some may associate him with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), but clarified that political support should not be confused with entitlement to appointments.
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“You don’t work in politics because you’ll be directly handed some goodies. That’s a misunderstanding,” he explained. “You back a political party with the understanding that they are better governors and can ensure collective good for everybody.”
He added that political engagement must not be transactional but value-driven, where supporters align with a party’s philosophy and trust it to deliver on national priorities.
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Prof. Mensah’s remarks come at a time when political discourse in Ghana is often dominated by debates over patronage, favouritism, and the use of state appointments as rewards for campaign contributions or loyalty.
He emphasised that public service must be grounded in competence and a genuine desire to serve the country, not a sense of entitlement.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
