Akandoh Urges GHS to Temper Justice With Mercy over Nurse’s Criticism
The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has encouraged the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to temper justice with mercy after it queried a nurse for her outburst against the former.
In a statement, the Minister said the government welcomes divergent views and constructive criticism as part of its commitment to fostering tolerance and openness to diverse opinions.
“Akandoh has appealed to the Service to temper justice with mercy in addressing the matter.”
He, however, commended the Service for its prompt response to the situation.
He further urged all health workers to express their opinions responsibly and respectfully, without resorting to insults, as this contributes to the healthy growth and development of the health sector.
“The Ministry wishes to emphasise that it has no objection to demonstrations, as they are legitimate expressions of frustration and a constitutional right of every citizen. However, the Ministry will not condone the use of abusive language or acts of indiscipline during such
demonstrations.
“The Ministry of Health also wishes to use this opportunity to remind all health professionals to be circumspect in their public communications and social media engagements.”
In a letter, the GHS cited the nurse identified as Bernice Aboagye, for allegedly using “unprintable, inappropriate and scandalous” language during a protest to demand their unpaid salaries.
It said its office has been receiving several calls from well-meaning Ghanaians registering their misgivings and reservations about the content of her videos since the protest.
It therefore invited her to explain why disciplinary action should not be instituted against her for:
1. Use of unacceptable and inappropriate words resulting in a rude behaviour towards the Honourable Minister for Health, contrary to Section 8.1(c) of the code of conduct and disciplinary procedures.
2. Use of abusive language on the Honourable Minister of Health, contrary to Section 8. 1 (D) of the Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedures:
3. Tarnishing the corporate image of the Service and bringing the name of the Service into disrepute, contrary to Section 4.1 (d) of the Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedures
Story by Hajara Fuseini
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