John Dramani Mahama-led government has appointed Professor Ransford Edward Van Gyampo as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA).
The outspoken academic from the University of Ghana’s Political Science Department assumes the role, replacing Kwesi Baffour Sarpong, who was appointed by the Akufo-Addo administration in December 2023.
His appointment, formally communicated through a letter delivered by Dr. Calistus Mahama, Executive Secretary to the President, has fueled discussions on political transitions and appointments to key state institutions.
Sources indicate that Mr. Sarpong has been directed to transfer all responsibilities to Prof. Gyampo with immediate effect, setting the stage for a leadership shift at the GSA.
Born on March 31, 1977, in Accra, Prof. Gyampo is a seasoned academic with two decades of experience in political science. He is a Professor of Political Science and the Founding Director of the Centre for European Studies at the University of Ghana.
While his academic credentials and governance expertise are widely acknowledged, critics question whether his vocal political stance could impact his neutrality in managing the affairs of the Ghana Shippers Authority.
His past outspoken critiques of governance issues in Ghana have made him a polarizing figure, raising speculations on how he will navigate this new role within the corridors of power.
With his appointment coming just months into the Mahama administration, stakeholders are keenly watching to see how Prof. Gyampo will steer the affairs of the GSA amidst Ghana’s evolving economic and political landscape.