NLC rules in favour of Ken Attafuah over dismissal of NIA worker

The National Labour Commission (NLC) has ruled in favor of Professor Ken Attafuah. He is the former Executive Secretary of the National Identification Authority (NIA). The NLC affirmed that his dismissal of Martin Akowuah in 2023 was justified.

Mr. Akowuah was fired for unlawfully changing working hours at the NIA’s Madina office. After his dismissal, he filed a complaint with the NLC seeking redress.

On March 14, the Commission concluded its investigation. They found that Professor Attafuah acted within legal guidelines for public service employment.

The ruling stated, “The decision to dismiss the Complainant was in line with policy frameworks.” It noted Mr. Akowuah's actions were unauthorized and irregular.

In response to the NLC’s verdict, Professor Attafuah defended his treatment of employees. He said Mr. Akowuah's claims of unfair treatment contradict his values as a human rights advocate.

“I believe I’m fair to a fault,” he stated in a media interview. He emphasized using his legal training to promote integrity and good governance.

Professor Attafuah also discussed challenges in institutional leadership in Ghana. He mentioned excessive politicization and misinformation as major issues.

“Effective leadership is difficult where propaganda blurs clarity,” he said. He believes these factors suppress truth and harm ethical leaders. “Thankfully, truth stands, eventually!” he added.