The Chairperson of the Integrated Social Development Centre (ISODEC), Esther Offei-Aboagye, has called for greater public involvement in the process of awarding national honours in Ghana.
She expressed concern over the lack of transparency and public understanding surrounding the current system.
Speaking on JoyNews' Newsfile on Saturday, 4th January, with Samson Lardy Anyenini, she stated, “This is an issue I feel strongly about because I remain largely uninformed about the process. If these honours are given in the name of my country and to recognise individuals for their contributions to public life, then, as a citizens, we must understand the process, the criteria, and any review mechanisms involved.”
Mrs Ofei-Aboagye compared Ghana’s system to those of other countries, where national honours often involve public nominations and specialist committees. In such countries, nominations begin with public submissions, which are then examined by expert committees based on the category of the award, such as technology or public service. These committees evaluate the merit of each nominee before recommendations are passed to a main committee.
“In other systems, the role of the head of state is limited to approval, with minimal direct involvement in selecting honourees. This ensures that the process is thorough, impartial, and transparent,” she explained.
She argued that if national honours are to reflect the collective appreciation of Ghanaians, the public must have a role in the process. “If you tell me someone has been honoured by Ghana, I should be able to say how that person’s life has positively impacted Ghanaians or contributed to the nation,” she noted.
Mrs Ofei-Aboagye also highlighted the need for reforms, including the establishment of clear criteria and investigative processes to identify deserving recipients. She emphasised that such reforms could eliminate perceptions of partisanship and ensure that honourees genuinely reflect the nation’s values and aspirations.
“We need to refine the system so that Ghanaians can confidently endorse those who are recognised. That way, the process will command public respect and genuineness,” she concluded.
Latest Stories
-
Ghana requires $6bn to implement comprehensive flood control measures – Minister
54 minutes -
DDEP, not reforms, behind ratings boost – Economic Advisor Sharif Mahmud Khalid admits
1 hour -
Fitch upgrade: We’re not rushing to re-enter external markets – Sharif Mahmud Khalid
2 hours -
‘No-bra, no-exam’ rule at Nigerian university sparks outrage
2 hours -
Spain’s government blames huge blackout on grid regulator and private firms
2 hours -
World’s only twice-a-year shot to prevent HIV could stop transmission – if people can get it
3 hours -
Mobile banker jailed 5 years for stealing GH¢70,840
3 hours -
ECG equipment thief jailed 5 years
3 hours -
Trader jailed 12 years for defiling minor
3 hours -
NPP 2026 Primaries: Bawumia doesn’t need favours, we’re ready – Miracles Aboagye
3 hours -
Police arrest school proprietor for preventing BECE candidates from writing exam
4 hours -
Two arraigned for alleged illegal gold trade
4 hours -
GWL uncovers illegal water connection at Adwoa Wangara apartment in Cantonments
4 hours -
Education Minister opens CIHRM 2025 conference
5 hours -
The Pulse & Vbyz Experience: A Galdem DJ Mixtape
5 hours