KBTH Senior Staff Association, other unions 'fight' the extension of CEO's tenure

Local unions and staff under the Korle-Bu Senior Staff Association have reiterated their stance against extending the tenure of Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, the Chief Executive Officer of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, beyond its expiration on October 5, 2024.

In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Health and dated August 26, 2024, the unions expressed their desire to have a sit-down with the ministry to discuss the way forward for the hospital’s progress.

The unions include the Health Service Workers Union (HSWU), the Ghana Federation of Allied Health Professions-Korle Bu Chapter (GFAHPS), the Health Accounting Staff Association of Ghana (HASAG), the Korle Bu Senior Staff Association (KOSSA), the Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA), and the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA).

“We wish to state without equivocation that the current CEO, Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah’s tenure must not be extended after expiration on the 5th of October this year (2024),” parts of the statement read.

Background

The health unions petitioned the Ministry of Health on August 9, 2024, over the tenure of the Chief Executive of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah.

According to them, the extended stay of Dr. Ware Ampomah is not in the interest of the hospital and its staff.

“We, the undersigned, respectfully petition against extending the tenure of the current Chief Executive of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

“…We believe that extending the tenure of the current Chief Executive would be detrimental to the hospital's progress and the well-being of its staff and patients. We urge you to consider our petition and take appropriate action,” part of the petition reads.

The health unions further listed the following reasons for their objection:

Inefficiencies in Absence: In the Chief Executive's absence, no cheques are signed, and all activities come to a halt.

Shortage of Basic Consumables: Delays in approvals have resulted in frequent shortages of essential supplies.

Conflict of Interest: The Chief Executive's interests seem to conflict with the hospital's goals by managing plastic surgery and the whole of Korle Bu.

Poor Management and Leadership Style: The current leadership has failed to inspire confidence and effective management.

Lack of Progress in Key Areas of Healthcare Delivery: Despite expectations, there has been little improvement in critical areas of healthcare.

Low Staff Morale and High Turnover: The hospital's workforce is demotivated, leading to a high turnover rate.

Visible Fatigue: The Chief Executive appears exhausted, which affects his ability to lead effectively.

Read the full statement below:



MAG/OGB