The Government Transition Team has clarified that no financial clearances have been issued to any ministry, department, or agency (MDA) for new payments or recruitment since the December 7 General Election.
This statement was made by Madam Fatimatu Abubakar, spokesperson for the Government Transition Team, in response to concerns raised by the incoming administration about alleged “last-minute payments and recruitment.”
Madam Abubakar emphasised that these claims are unfounded, asserting that processes for payments and recruitments mentioned had commenced months before the elections.
She highlighted the government’s commitment to a smooth transfer of power and called for professionalism from both sides of the Transition Team during this critical period.
Speaking during a media interview in Accra on Thursday, December 19, Madam Abubakar, who also serves as the Minister of Information, elaborated on several key issues:
- Recruitment of Health Personnel: The recruitment portal for nurses and allied health professionals was opened well in advance of the elections.
- One-District, One-Factory Tax Waivers: Tax incentives for companies under the One-District, One-Factory initiative were laid before Parliament long before the polls.
- Security Personnel Recruitment: The recruitment of security personnel began at the start of the year.
- Naval Ship Procurement: Processes to purchase 65-foot naval ships commenced three years ago.
Madam Fatimatu Abubakar reiterated that all actions taken complied with the provisions of the Transition Act, underscoring the fairness and transparency of the co-chairs overseeing the transition process.
In a call for decorum, she urged Mr. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, spokesperson for the incoming administration, to exercise restraint in his public comments to avoid creating unnecessary tensions. “We must all prioritise professionalism and goodwill to ensure a seamless transition,” she stated.
This clarification seeks to dispel any misconceptions about the government’s activities during the transition period and to affirm its dedication to upholding legal and ethical standards in the handover process.