Dr. Asiamah must wait for approval before assuming office – Afenyo-Markin to Mahama

The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has raised concerns over the premature assumption of office by Dr. Johnson Asiamah as Governor of the Bank of Ghana, despite his nomination still awaiting approval from the Council of State.

In a letter addressed to President John Dramani Mahama, Afenyo-Markin acknowledged the official nomination of Dr. Asiamah but noted that reports suggest he has already begun executing duties at the central bank without the necessary confirmation.

“Reports from various media houses indicate that Dr. Asiamah has proceeded to the Bank of Ghana and, in all intents and purposes, has assumed office as Governor, engaging in meetings and official activities,” Afenyo-Markin wrote.

The Minority Leader argued that such actions raise serious procedural and constitutional concerns, especially considering that the Council of State, which is responsible for approving such appointments, has not yet been constituted. He emphasized the importance of upholding due process, drawing an analogy with the judiciary.

“It is worth considering the precedent this sets. If, for instance, a judicial nominee were to take their seat in court and begin administering justice before receiving the necessary approvals from the Judicial Council, it would be widely deemed inappropriate. The same principle must apply in this instance,” he stated.

Afenyo-Markin further questioned the measures that would be taken should the Council of State decide against approving Dr. Asiamah’s nomination, asking how the actions he has already undertaken would be addressed.

“It is my considered view that Dr. Johnson Asiamah should refrain from engaging in official duties at the Bank of Ghana until his nomination has been duly approved by the Council of State. While awaiting confirmation, he can seek any necessary briefings outside the formal assumption of office,” he advised.

See full statement;