Former Asante Akim North MP, Andy Appiah-Kubi, emphasized the importance of adhering to Ghana’s retirement laws for public servants in a recent TV appearance. During his address on TV3’s “The Key Points” on April 12, 2025, he asserted that public servants are mandated to retire at 60, with exceptions requiring valid justifications and legal procedures.
Appiah-Kubi said, “There is no debate needed. The law is clear: retire at 60. If someone is required to continue, proper justification and due process are essential.”
Joining the dialogue, Thomas Musah Tanko, General Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), suggested options like a two-year contract extension or consultancy roles for retirees still essential to their fields. This would facilitate the transfer of critical skills and knowledge, addressing gaps in succession planning within the civil service.
Musah remarked, “We support the retirement age of 60 but must ensure its implementation maintains continuity and preserves institutional memory.”
Labour expert Austin Gamey backed the cessation of contract extensions, citing abuse of the system as a barrier to youth employment. He stated, “We must train the youth to succeed the older generations. The contract system’s misuse needs to end.”
These remarks follow President John Dramani Mahama’s directive to halt contract extensions for retirees in the public sector, a move that surprised some labor unions. They urge the government to engage further consultations before enforcing the policy fully.
Under Ghana’s Labour Act 651 (2003), retirement for public sector workers is mandatory at 60, and at 55 for mining personnel. Nonetheless, contract extensions have kept many in service, which, with over 700,000 public sector workers and more than 1,000 annual retirements, could shift workforce dynamics significantly.
Organized labor advocates for discussions to ensure a seamless transition, safeguarding the expertise of seasoned workers while opening opportunities for the youth
Source: https://www.gbcghanaonline.com
