Anti-corruption crusader and media manager, Graham Kofi Baldwin, has vowed to fight against political interference and corruption within the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS). Speaking to the media in Accra, Baldwin, a sympathizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), alleged that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is sponsoring candidates for key leadership positions in the GIS to serve their interests.
Allegations Against Michael Asare Bediako
Baldwin specifically called out Michael Asare Bediako, the current Human Resource Director of GIS, alleging that he is lobbying for the position of Comptroller General under the sponsorship of the NPP. Baldwin accused Bediako of political bias, claiming he was involved in actions to sideline personnel unwilling to comply with the NPP’s directives during their administration.
“Michael Asare Bediako will never become Comptroller General under the incoming Mahama administration. The NPP’s attempt to plant their loyalists in strategic positions to frustrate good governance is well known, and we are monitoring closely,” Baldwin stated.
Political Promotions and Discontent in GIS
Backing his claims with evidence, Baldwin highlighted a promotion circular (GIS/ADM/003/VOL.1) dated July 18, 2024, which promoted 42 senior officers, including Michael Asare Bediako, effective March 1, 2024. He described these promotions as politically motivated, accusing the Comptroller General, Kwame Asuah Takyi, of undermining meritocracy.
“The promotion letter, signed by Kwame Asuah Takyi, sparked widespread discontent among GIS officers. Promoting individuals above their seniors without justifiable reasons erodes the integrity of the Service,” Baldwin emphasized.
Illegal Recruitment Allegations
Baldwin also alleged ongoing illegal recruitment at the GIS headquarters, claiming that the process was rushed and marred by irregularities. He disclosed that the Comptroller General issued appointment letters to recruits and cadet officers on November 1, 2024, despite many not meeting legal requirements.
According to Baldwin, 815 recruits reported to the Assin Fosu GIS training center on November 26, 2024, but were later released to vote. Following the elections, additional appointment letters were allegedly issued to NPP loyalists, some of whom had not applied or undergone medical examinations.
“Why the rush to recruit such a large number in a short period? This reeks of political opportunism and must be stopped,” Baldwin said, pledging to push for the incoming Mahama administration to investigate and halt the process.
Call for Accountability
Baldwin called on the incoming government to restore integrity to the GIS by addressing these alleged irregularities. He insisted that politically motivated appointments and illegal recruitment exercises must be scrutinized and reversed where necessary.
“If we want to see integrity injected into GIS operations, the incoming administration must act decisively. Revenue collection, border control, and the nation’s security depend on a credible and unbiased Immigration Service,” Baldwin noted.
His revelations have underscored ongoing concerns about political interference and corruption in Ghana’s public institutions. As the NDC prepares to assume office in January 2025, calls for transparency and accountability in governance processes are expected to intensify.
By Alhaji Umarh, Accra