More Allegations Surface Against Dr. Baning as Pantang Hospital Staff Demand His Removal

Fresh revelations have emerged regarding the embattled Director of Pantang Hospital, Dr. Baning, as hospital staff intensify calls for his immediate removal. Staff members accuse him of systematically running the hospital into decline while fostering a toxic work environment. These allegations primarily center around corruption and other unethical activities.

Corruption Allegations and the Use of Dummy Companies

According to sources within the hospital, Dr. Baning, in collaboration with a senior staff member in the procurement department, has allegedly established ‘dummy’ companies to monopolize the supply of medical and non-medical consumables to the hospital. These companies, including Lips Investment, Sprinskey Ventures, Blackrock Ltd, and Alfies Pharmacy Ltd, have reportedly won numerous bids over the past eight years, raising serious concerns about procurement irregularities.

Staff allege that Dr. Baning has adopted an authoritarian leadership style, using intimidation and victimization to silence anyone who questions his actions. Employees who have spoken out against his alleged corrupt activities claim to have faced transfers, forced resignations, or other forms of professional retaliation.

One such case involves Selorm, an auditor at the hospital, who reportedly raised concerns over the inflated cost of mobile phones procured under Dr. Baning’s approval. Instead of addressing the issue, Dr. Baning allegedly subjected Selorm to intense victimization, ultimately forcing him to leave the hospital. Similar reports have surfaced from various departments, including medical personnel, accountants, store officers, procurement staff, kitchen staff, and even security personnel.

Staff Discontent and Lack of Confidence in Union Leadership

Many staff members have expressed frustration with their Union leaders, accusing them of being manipulated by Dr. Baning and failing to advocate for their welfare. Employees fear further victimization but insist that their concerns must be addressed. One major grievance includes the imposition of a GHC 50 levy on all staff, deducted directly from salaries without proper consultation.

Some Union leaders have admitted to being fearful of repercussions but have recently begun circulating details of an earlier petition that documents alleged mismanagement and corruption at the hospital.

Mental Health Authority’s Dilemma and Dr. Baning’s Response

The Chief Executive of the Mental Health Authority, Dr. Pinaman Appau, finds herself in a difficult position, as pressure mounts on her to take decisive action. Reports suggest that she has been hesitant to act, possibly due to her close ties with Dr. Baning. Despite being aware of staff concerns, she has stated that no formal petition has been submitted.

Last week, Dr. Appau was spotted at Accra Psychiatric Hospital consulting with a retired psychiatrist, who is known for his political affiliations with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), further fueling speculation about political interference in the matter.

For his part, Dr. Baning has remained defiant. He recently summoned Union leaders at Pantang Hospital, questioning whether any grievances had been reported to them. He dismissed the allegations as politically motivated and reportedly told close confidantes that, as a public servant, he is untouchable.

Staff Expectations and Calls for Urgent Action

Staff members are now calling on the Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, to intervene urgently and prevent the total collapse of Pantang Hospital. They demand that Dr. Baning immediately step aside to allow staff to report their concerns freely, without fear of victimization. Additionally, they are calling for an independent financial audit of the hospital covering his entire eight-year tenure.

Many doctors and nurses at Pantang Hospital describe the work environment as unbearable, with some contemplating leaving for the UK rather than continuing under such conditions.

In the coming days, more details are expected to emerge, including further exposés on corruption within Ghana’s mental health sector and specific cases of procurement fraud allegedly orchestrated by Dr. Baning and his associates.