Ken Ofori-Atta failed as Finance Minister because he ignored the technocrats – Governance expert

A critical aspect of governance, according to Governance expert, Professor Enoch Antwi is the relationship between ministers and technocrats.

Speaking on 3FM’s Hot Edition with Alfred Ocansey on February 6, he stressed that while ministers are political appointees, they must work closely with experienced civil servants who understand the intricacies of their ministries.

Antwi was clear in his advice: “If you’re a minister, don’t go in thinking you know it all. The technocrats have been there for decades and can help you succeed.”

He shared a key observation regarding Ken Ofori-Atta, the former Finance Minister, who he believes failed in his role because he did not properly engage with the technocrats within his ministry.

“The problem someone like Ofori-Atta had at the Ministry of Finance was that he thought he knew everything, and because of that, those technocrats just watched him fail,” Antwi remarked, reflecting on the importance of humility in leadership.

Antwi also emphasized the tension between political loyalty and expertise. He noted that the NDC has traditionally worked with people who have risen through the ranks of the Civil Service, while the NPP tends to appoint individuals based on political loyalty, which can sometimes lead to friction.

“NDC has always worked with those who’ve risen through the ranks. NPP, on the other hand, picks people based on political loyalty, and that can lead to conflict,” he explained.

Professor Antwi highlighted that the success of any institution is largely driven by the quality of people chosen for leadership.

“The success of any institution is based on the people you hire,” he said. “65% of your success comes from the quality of people you bring into leadership.”

His final point echoed his earlier thoughts on collaboration: “When you work with people who know the ins and outs of the ministry, you’ll see results.”

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