The Minister for Information, Fatima Abubakar, has clarified allegations regarding last-minute recruitments by the outgoing Akufo-Addo-led government.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Thursday, she stressed the legitimacy of the process and refuted claims of improper recruitment practices.
“If the recruitment is legitimate and according to the law, nothing stops the government from proceeding with it,” she stated.
She added that the current administration’s mandate has not expired and that recruitment processes take time, often requiring approvals and clearances from the Ministry of Finance.
“Before recruitment happens, you need to get clearance from the Finance Minister. It is not true that we started recruitment right after the elections. These processes have been ongoing for a long time,” she explained.
Her comment comes after Felix Kwakye Ofosu, spokesperson for President-elect John Dramani Mahama’s Transition Team, raised concerns over alleged last-minute recruitments and payments being made by the outgoing government.
Speaking to the media after the first day of the transition team’s work, he pointed out potential financial implications for the incoming administration.
But Madam Abubakar also challenged critics to provide evidence of any individuals being recruited without following due process.
“Bring proof of any individual who has not gone through the proper processes but is being recruited. It hasn’t happened,” she declared.
Regarding concerns about the government’s executive authority during the transition period, she remarked, “The Transition Act does not put an embargo on the executive authority of the President. There has not been any other directive or provision to stop these activities.”
She stressed the importance of maintaining a smooth and peaceful transition.
“The smoothest thing we have done as a country is to ensure peaceful elections and a formidable team from both sides to facilitate a smooth handing over,” she noted.
Fatima Abubakar reassured the public that no one would hold on to positions unlawfully.
“If January 7th comes, they can take over. We will be a responsive opposition and will respond accordingly. But for now, nothing stops legitimate recruitment.”
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