Former Ghanaian High Commissioner to the UK and Ireland, Isaac Osei, has emphasized the need for skill-based appointments in government, stating that Ghana will struggle to progress unless qualified professionals are placed in key positions.

Speaking on "MASTER of the GAME," a personality show hosted by King Kwasi Kyei Darkwah (KKD) on CTV on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, Ambassador Osei expressed concerns over the current appointment system, which prioritizes political loyalty over expertise.

Ambassador Osei argued that Ghana’s slow development is partly due to the way government positions are filled, stressing that skilled and educated individuals should be given the opportunity to serve.

“If we want Ghana to progress, we must appoint people with the right skills and expertise.

The current system, where loyalty to the government takes precedence over competence, is holding us back,” he stated.

He further noted that many capable professionals are overlooked because they are not politically aligned, which hinders national development.

While acknowledging the role of loyalty in governance, he called for a balance between political commitment and professional expertise to ensure effective leadership to help move the country forward.

“When you are educated and skilled, you are duty-bound to serve when called upon.

However, the emphasis on government loyalty makes it difficult for many competent individuals to contribute,” he added.

Ambassador Osei urged policymakers to infuse meritocracy into governance, ensuring that talent and expertise drive Ghana’s development agenda.