‘Refusing to Serve Your Nation Is Unpatriotic’ – Prof. Gyampo on His Appointment
The newly appointed Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA), Prof. Ransford Gyampo, has responded to critics questioning his acceptance of the role.
Following his appointment, some critics have suggested that his new position is a political reward from President Mahama, given his previous vocal criticism of former President Akufo-Addo’s administration.
Addressing the concerns in an interview on TV3’s Hot Issues, Prof. Gyampo dismissed these claims, stating that rejecting an opportunity to serve the nation would be “unpatriotic.”
“You are a nation wrecker if you refuse to serve when given the chance,” he remarked on Sunday, February 2, 2025.
He refuted claims that his past criticisms were solely directed at Akufo-Addo, pointing out that he had also scrutinized the administrations of former Presidents J.A. Kufuor, John Evans Atta Mills, and John Mahama.
“I Am Competent and Will Excel in My New Role”
Prof. Gyampo emphasized that his appointment was based on competence, not political affiliation, and assured the public that he would perform his duties effectively.
He reaffirmed his commitment to holding any government accountable when necessary.
“It’s a democracy, and people will say what they want. I have been scrutinizing governments since J.A. Kufuor’s time. My work has always focused on ministerial appointments and government spending.”
He recalled challenging former President Mills, arguing that leadership should go beyond moral standing to ensuring that virtues are reflected in the actions of appointees.
“When President Mills was in power, I told him we don’t need just a moralist as President but someone whose virtues influence governance.”
Regarding former President Mahama, he noted that he was among those who “sent him to opposition” by holding his administration accountable.
“I Will Not Be Silenced”
Prof. Gyampo dismissed claims that his appointment makes him a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“It is an unintelligent argument to suggest that if you criticize a government and later accept an appointment, you automatically become a member of that government,” he stated.
He assured Ghanaians that he remains committed to speaking out against any government when necessary, emphasizing his dedication to national service above political allegiance.
