Social critic Sir Richard has warned that Ghana’s development is being held back by what he describes as “political gatekeeping” across key national systems — with the education sector being one of the worst hit.
Speaking on Plan B FM’s Ebaanosen show, he cited the long list of qualified, fully trained teachers who continue to sit at home despite completing their training years ago. For him, the backlog is not a matter of capacity but a symptom of a deeper, more troubling trend.
According to Sir Richard, the posting of teachers has become a privilege determined by political proximity rather than merit. He argued that while a few applicants receive their appointment letters smoothly, many others with equal or even superior qualifications are sidelined simply because they lack political connections.
He described the situation as a “quiet injustice” that chips away at public trust and undermines Ghana’s commitment to equal opportunity.
“Ghana cannot move forward if opportunities are rationed based on who you know and not what you know,” he warned, adding that the country risks normalizing a culture where influence trumps competence.
Sir Richard called for a complete reset of the system — one where the rule of law is re-energized, accountability is not negotiable, and the state’s institutions serve all citizens fairly without fear or favour.
He urged the government to restore confidence by ensuring that postings, recruitment, and national opportunities are handled transparently and insulated from political manipulation.
By: Richel Turkson/Planbfmonline.com
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