Member of Parliament for the Abuakwa South constituency and Member of Parliamentary Health Committee, Dr. Kingsley Agyemang has criticized the Minister of Health over the recent dismissal of the CEO of the Tamale Teaching Hospital. According to him, the minister had no authority to make such a decision, describing the action as politically motivated and procedurally wrong.
Speaking to ABC News GH , Dr. Agyemang stresses that , “the Minister of Health (Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh) has no mandate to sack the CEO of a teaching hospital. There are laid down procedures, and bypassing those systems undermines professionalism and good governance in our health sector.”
He further cautioned against politicizing the health sector, urging for professionalism and due process in all matters related to the welfare of healthcare workers. “We cannot play politics with our health workers. These are people who dedicate their lives daily to care for us. Interference like this demoralizes them,” he added.
Addressing the recent unannounced visits by the Health Minister to some hospitals, Dr. Agyemang admitted that such inspections are part of the committee’s annual oversight responsibilities. However, he raised concerns about the manner in which they are conducted. “Oversight is important, yes—but it must be done with decorum and respect. Storming a facility unannounced for the cameras is not the way to get results.”
Dr. Agyemang also hinted at possible parliamentary action, especially from the Minority, to protect healthcare professionals and restore sanity within the sector. “As soon as we get to May, the Minority will use every power we have in Parliament to ensure our health workers have the peace of mind they deserve to do their jobs,” he assured.
The sacking of the Tamale Teaching Hospital CEO has stirred significant backlash, with many stakeholders calling for clarity and adherence to proper governance structures in managing health institutions.
As this political standoff unfolds, many health professionals and civil society groups are watching closely, demanding accountability and fairness in the management of Ghana’s healthcare system.