Concerns are mounting over the growing wave of petitions targeting heads of independent institutions, as Governance Expert Mr. Michael Boadi warns against what he describes as “a worrying trend” that could erode public trust.
Speaking on ABC News’ Prime News on Thursday, Boadi expressed alarm over what appears to be politically motivated moves to oust key public officials under the guise of accountability.
“Ordinarily, petitioning for the removal of public office holders should not be a problem if there are good grounds,” he said.
“But what is concerning is that this flood of petitions is coming just as a new government takes over, and that feeds into the perception of politicization. That is a concern and worrying.”
His remarks come in the wake of a formal petition filed by the Alliance for Social Equity and Public Accountability (ASEPA) on April 3, 2025, calling for the removal of Auditor General Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu.
The petition, submitted at the Jubilee House and signed by ASEPA’s Executive Director, Mr. Mensah Thompson, accuses the Auditor General of high crimes, abuse of office, and constitutional violations.
Among the charges listed are failure to comply with Supreme Court directives, collusion with the Audit Service Board to bypass Parliament’s oversight, and unlawful retention of public funds.
ASEPA has asked President John Mahama to invoke Article 187(13) of the Constitution to initiate the formal removal process.
Mr. Boadi stressed that while demanding accountability is crucial, such efforts must be done within the law and not weaponized for political advantage.
“If this turns out to be much of politicization, then let’s raise a forceful concern so it will stop—even if it requires going to the Supreme Court,” he cautioned. He urged that due process be respected and transparency upheld, warning that politically charged removals could compromise the independence of vital state institutions.
The latest petition follows others targeting top officials including Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, raising broader questions about the new administration’s approach to institutional reform.
