Ghana’s Reputation at Risk Over Key Official Removals, Warns Lawyer Ken Kuranchie

Kenneth Kuranchie has warned that recent removal petitions against high-ranking officials in Ghana could portray the country as a ‘banana republic’ in the eyes of international observers. He called for a commitment to better democratic practices, emphasizing the importance of allowing officials to serve their terms honorably.

In a striking declaration, legal practitioner Kenneth Kuranchie expresses grave concerns over Ghana’s political climate, citing recent petitions to remove key officials, including Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo and Electoral Commissioner Jean Mensa. These actions, he argues, risk tarnishing the nation’s reputation on the global stage by presenting Ghana as a “banana republic,” a term denoting political instability and lack of seriousness.

Speaking on GHOne TV on April 25, 2025, Kuranchie indicated that the ousting of such high-ranking officials upon changes in government is an alarming trend. He remarked, “It is time that all of us made a very conscious decision to behave well.” He emphasized that observers from abroad might derive a negative impression of governance in Ghana. “How many times have you heard of the United States, Western European countries…removing their commissioners of police?” he challenged.

As the Managing Editor of The Searchlight newspaper, Kuranchie is not shy to voice his opinion about the necessity for Ghana to embrace better democratic practices—lessons gleaned from more stable nations. He maintained that officials in these high positions should not just be replaced at will but should be allowed to serve until their retirement. “You get into the position, you grow in the position, you retire from the position,” he asserted, advocating for a cultural shift towards honoring tenure in public service.

In conclusion, Kenneth Kuranchie’s remarks highlight critical issues surrounding political stability in Ghana, stemming from the recent calls for the removal of key officials. His views underscore a growing narrative that suggests Ghana risks undermining its international image by not adhering to established democratic practices. Cultivating a political culture that respects the tenure of officials could be essential for the country’s reputation and stability going forward.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com