Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang: Compassionate, Frank and Courageous

Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has demonstrated courage, compassion and remarkable frankness in addressing issues that affect Ghana’s economic development, without allowing herself to be intimidated by the potential backlash from business interests whose livelihoods depend heavily on the importation of goods and products that Ghana has the capacity and comparative advantage to produce.

Her candid condemnation of Ghanaians growing appetite for foreign goods, particularly products that can be produced locally, deserves commendation. At a time when political considerations can sometimes discourage public officials from speaking frankly, the Vice President has shown that national interest must take precedence over the comfort of individuals or groups with vested interests.

Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has been consistent in her approach to national issues whenever she has the opportunity to speak publicly. Her recent comments during her interview with KSM should therefore not come as a surprise to citizens who have not followed her public engagements.

She admonishes when necessary and commends when appropriate. That is the mark of a leader who is guided by principle rather than convenience.

The Vice President has proven herself to be a worthy partner to President John Mahama. Her commitment, compassion, courage and willingness to speak frankly in the national interest provide an example that other government appointees should emulate.

Sadly, some appointees appear to operate under an imaginary threat, becoming excessively cautious because of their dealings with party financiers and other powerful political actors. In some instances, this excessive caution has allowed undue interference to undermine the effective discharge of their responsibilities.

Government appointees must be empowered and encouraged to perform the functions entrusted to them without unnecessary political interference from any quarter. Ministers and public officials should be judged by their commitment to the national interest and the results they deliver not by their willingness to satisfy the whims and caprices of individuals who believe their financial contributions to a political party give them undue influence over government.

Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has demonstrated that it is possible to be compassionate without being timid, loyal without surrendering one's principles, and politically committed without compromising the national interest.

Her example should inspire other ministers and appointees to be bold enough to speak truth to power, defend sound economic policies and resist every attempt by vested interests to dictate the direction of government.

Sociopolitical Analyst.