NPP Communicator criticises government directive on awards
Akunyire says focus should be on economic hardship and service delivery, not award restrictions
Maxwell Akunyire, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team in the Chiana-Paga Constituency, has criticised the government’s recent directive requiring ministers, chief executive officers of state institutions, and other political appointees to obtain prior approval from the Presidency before attending or accepting awards from private organisations.
According to him, the directive does little to address the pressing economic challenges facing Ghanaians and should not be considered a priority.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Wednesday, June 10, Akunyire argued that government should focus more on improving the living conditions of citizens rather than regulating the participation of public officials in award ceremonies.
He maintained that Ghanaians are more concerned about economic hardship and service delivery than restrictions on awards and recognitions for appointees.
Akunyire stressed that the performance of government should be assessed based on tangible outcomes that directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
He questioned the practical significance of the directive, insisting that it does not contribute to solving the country’s developmental and economic challenges.
“If people are suffering, that is what should matter to us. That is the real issue we are dealing with,” he said.
The NPP communicator also cautioned against comparing the performance of ministers across different sectors, noting that each ministry operates under distinct mandates and responsibilities.
“You cannot compare a finance minister, a roads minister, and an energy minister and say one is best. Their work is not the same,” he stated.
Akunyire further argued that citizens ultimately evaluate governments based on their day-to-day experiences, including the quality of roads, transportation, utility costs, and overall economic stability.
“What people see on the ground is what they will use to judge government,” he added.
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