SECURITY RECRUITMENT: PROTOZOA SLAMS NDC JOB PROMISES AND CALLS FOR FAIRNESS

The Suhum MP also addressed the ongoing debate surrounding recruitment into Ghana’s security services, responding to comparisons between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Hon. Asiedu Bekoe insisted that the NPP never promised to recruit 133,000 people, a figure often cited by critics, whereas the NDC had made such assurances to the public. He explained that the recruitment process initially targeted applicants between the ages of 18 and 25 but was later extended to 35 years, which increased expectations among young applicants. Despite the expanded age range and high number of applicants, only about 5,000 people were ultimately selected, a fact that has caused some public disappointment. Protozoa also addressed remarks made by Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the NDC National Chairman, warning that such statements could fuel frustration among unemployed youth. He stressed the importance of focusing on improving the recruitment system itself rather than politicizing it. Additionally, he suggested that applicants who paid fees during the 2018 recruitment exercise but were not selected should be refunded. It is only fair to ensure that those who invested in the process but were unsuccessful get their money back, while applicants in subsequent years did not pay for forms,” he noted, advocating for transparency and accountability in the recruitment process.Hon. Asiedu Bekoe also touched on energy and governance issues, defending the introduction of prepaid electricity meters during the tenure of Mahamudu Bawumia. He emphasized that the system was designed to enhance efficiency and prevent wastage, countering claims from critics that the meters were disadvantageous to consumers. “The prepaid meter system has not cheated Ghanaians. It allows people to control their electricity usage and pay only for what they consume,” he said. Turning to international relations, Protozoa commented on former President Mahama’s recent visit to South Korea, noting that former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo undertook similar international trips and received awards for his leadership. He criticized what he described as Mahama’s “double standards,” pointing out that Mahama had previously opposed such trips when NPP leaders undertook them, but now accepts accolades in the same manner. Finally, the Suhum MP raised concerns over reports that a private jet was allegedly provided to Mahama by his brother. He questioned the timing and implications of such a gift, suggesting that it could raise serious public concerns regarding political influence, transparency, and accountability. Protozoa concluded by emphasizing that leadership is not just about privileges but about building trust, ensuring fairness, and being transparent in the eyes of the Ghanaian people.