Pressure mounts on President Mahama to enforce post-retirement directive

Growing public concern is emerging over the continued appointment and retention of public officials beyond the statutory retirement age, despite a government directive suspending such practices.

It would be recalled that, in a communiqué dated April 2, 2025, issued by the Executive Secretary to the President, Dr Callistus Mahama, on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama announced an immediate suspension of post-retirement contract appointments and extensions for retired public service staff.

The directive further stated that such requests would no longer be considered.

However, critics argue that the policy is not being consistently enforced, raising questions about the government’s commitment to its own directive.

A social media activist, PK Sarpong, in a widely circulated Facebook post expressed concern that several Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), Managing Directors (MDs), and their deputies who are above the age of 60 remain in office, many in acting capacities while continuing to draw full salaries and benefits.

According to him, “Nobody coerced His Excellency to commit to such a policy, so it is worrying that he is not walking his talk.”

He listed several officials reportedly still holding positions despite having reached or exceeded retirement age including the Acting CEO of Ghana EximBank, Sylvester Mensah (63), MD for Electricity Company of Ghana, Ing Julius Kwame Kpekpena (62), and Administrator of the GetFUND, Paul Adjei (60) amongst others.

Below is the full list published by PK Sarpong;

* Kwame Ntow Amoah, Acting CEO, Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) – 60

* Sylvester Mensah, Acting CEO, Ghana EximBank – 63

* Bennett Akantoa, Deputy CEO, Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund – 66

* Ing Julius Kwame Kpekpena, Managing Director, Electricity Company of Ghana – 62

* Dr Tony Aubynn, CEO, Petroleum Hub Development Corporation – 64

* Dr Francis Baah, Deputy CEO, Ghana Cocoa Board – 65

* Siisi Quainoo, Gaming Commission – 63

* Vincent Kuabenu, Community Water and Sanitation Agency – 62

* Paul Adjei, GETFund Administrator – 60

The list, he noted, was compiled with input from Asempa FM’s Ekosi Sen programme.

The development has sparked debate over governance standards, fairness in public sector employment, and opportunities for younger professionals within state institutions.

Analysts say failure to adhere strictly to the directive could undermine public trust and weaken ongoing efforts to reform the public service.

There has been no official response from the Presidency or the affected institutions regarding the claims.

Observers are calling for clarity on the policy’s enforcement and a transparent review of all post-retirement appointments to ensure compliance with government directives.