The Minority in Parliament has launched a fierce protest against the dismissal of over 100 staff members from the Bank of Ghana, labelling the move unconstitutional, unlawful, and a threat to Ghana’s democratic principles.
At a press conference held on Tuesday, June 24, they described the action as a politically motivated purge that ignored due process and violated fundamental labour rights.
According to the Minority, the terminated staff had been legally recruited and vetted, yet were suddenly removed based on a February 11 directive from the Chief of Staff ordering the revocation of all public sector appointments made after December 7, 2024. They argued that such a directive lacks legal authority and warned that no public institution should implement politically driven instructions that bypass constitutional safeguards.
Legal and Procedural Violations
The Minority cited multiple breaches of the 1992 Constitution, including Article 24, which protects workers’ rights, and Article 23, which mandates fairness in administrative actions. They also referenced the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), which outlines specific legal grounds for termination, none of which, they argue, were applicable in this case.
Even if the Bank had claimed redundancy, the Minority emphasized that it failed to notify the Chief Labour Officer, consult affected staff, or offer the required compensation, as stipulated by law.
No Excuse in Probation Status
Attempts to justify the dismissals by citing the probationary status of some staff were dismissed by the Minority, who argued that probation does not allow for arbitrary terminations. They insisted that even probationary workers are entitled to clear assessments, feedback, and legal protection.
Parliament Ignored
Adding to their frustration, the Minority criticized the Bank of Ghana for proceeding with the dismissals despite a pending motion in Parliament for a full inquiry. They described the central bank’s action as a show of disrespect to parliamentary authority and democratic oversight.
Human and Social Toll
Beyond legal arguments, the Minority stressed the devastating human impact of the dismissals. Many of the affected individuals are young professionals, parents, and breadwinners now facing financial uncertainty and emotional distress.
Demands and Next Steps
The Minority laid out several urgent demands:
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Immediate Reinstatement of all dismissed staff
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Parliamentary Accountability, with the Governor of the Bank of Ghana summoned to explain the dismissals
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Urgent Intervention by labour and human rights bodies, including CHRAJ and the National Labour Commission
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Legal Support for affected workers seeking redress
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A Full Parliamentary Inquiry to reverse the decision and hold those responsible accountable
Upholding Democracy and the Rule of Law
The Minority closed their statement with a call to uphold Ghana’s democratic values, warning that silence in the face of such actions threatens the foundation of the Republic.
“This is not just about workers,” they warned, “it’s about defending the rule of law and ensuring public institutions remain accountable.”
They pledged unwavering support for the dismissed employees and vowed to pursue every legal and parliamentary avenue to restore their rights and positions.
