Ghana Implies ‘Banana Republic’ Image with Key Official Removals — Ken Kuranchie

Kenneth Kuranchie warns that the removal of high-ranking officials in Ghana, including the Chief Justice, portrays the nation as a ‘banana republic.’ Urging a cultural shift, he emphasizes the need for stability and dignified retirements, arguing that serious nations do not easily dismiss their leaders following a governmental change.

Ghana faces significant criticism over recent proposals to remove high-ranking officials which some argue jeopardizes its international reputation. Kenneth Kuranchie, a private legal practitioner and Managing Editor of The Searchlight newspaper, has voiced concern that such actions portray Ghana as a ‘banana republic’ in the eyes of global observers.

In an interview with GHOne TV on April 25, 2025, Kuranchie strongly suggested that dismissals of chief officials, including the Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo and heads of security agencies, immediately following a change in government, undermine the country’s integrity. He pointed out that serious nations do not typically remove their top figures under such circumstances.

Kuranchie questioned the frequency of such removals in established democracies, citing that one rarely sees similar actions in the United States or Western Europe. He asserted the importance of preserving the positions of those who have served honorably, allowing them to retire with dignity rather than facing abrupt removal.

He urged for a fundamental cultural shift in Ghana, advocating for high-ranking officials to be allowed to remain in their appointments through their tenure. “We must learn to adopt that culture,” Kuranchie added, emphasizing the need for stability and proper democratic practices in governance.

Ghana is at a crossroads, as these discussions on leadership changes reflect not only political maneuvering but also raise questions about the nation’s commitment to expert governance and democratic principles. Blindly following hasty removals will only serve to further cloud its image on the international stage.

In summary, the calls for the removal of key officials in Ghana have sparked a debate over the nation’s governance practices. Kenneth Kuranchie contends that such actions can alienate Ghana from established democracies, stressing that a culture of stable appointments is vital. As Ghana navigates these challenges, the importance of maintaining a respectable democratic image is paramount.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com