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Daniel Duku calls for ethical leadership systems to strengthen Ghana’s institutions
Former public sector executive and governance advisor , Daniel Duku has called on leaders in Ghana to shift from personality-driven leadership to the deliberate construction of ethical systems that can sustain institutions beyond individual tenures.
According to Duku, Ghana has produced capable leaders across public and private sectors, but many institutions remain fragile because progress is often tied to individuals rather than strong governance frameworks.
“Ethics in our institutions cannot depend solely on the character of individuals in political positions. We as a country, must endeavour to put systems in place to ensure consistency in processes and outcomes” he said.
“What defines success is not how influential a leader becomes, but whether the institution continues to function effectively after that leader exits.” He noted.
Mr. Duku explained that Ghana’s leadership challenge is less about a lack of vision or basic resources but more about systemic weaknesses.
“Frequent changes in political leadership, board appointments, and executive management mean that institutions in Ghana must be built to withstand transitions” he mentioned.
He emphasized that ethical leadership must extend beyond public rhetoric and be embedded into the operational structures of organizations.
The former Chief Executive Officer of Ghana’s Venture Capital Trust Fund, highlighted procurement processes, financial controls, performance management systems, and decision-making frameworks as critical areas where ethics must be institutionalized, as properly designed systems protect not only institutions but also leaders by reducing exposure to risk and controversy.
Daniel Duku identified board governance as one of the most underutilized mechanisms in Ghana’s leadership ecosystem.
He noted that boards often function as ceremonial bodies rather than independent oversight institutions.
“Boards exist to protect the institution. They must be willing to ask difficult questions and act in the long-term interest of the organization.” he clarified.
He added that ineffective boards contribute significantly to institutional failure and loss of public trust.
Addressing leadership lapses, Duku outlined several shifts he believes are necessary for Ghana’s leadership future, including moving from personality-centered leadership to institution-centered governance, strengthening accountability mechanisms, improving transparency, and prioritizing long-term national value over short-term gains.
He observed that Ghana’s public discourse often treats setbacks as final judgments rather than opportunities for reform.
He called for a more mature leadership culture that examines mistakes, documents lessons, and strengthens systems accordingly.
In concluding, he urged leaders across government, corporate, and civil society sectors to reflect on the legacy of their leadership and reiterated the need for system-driven institutions that continue to work when political leaders leave office, and continues to serve citizens consistently and effectively.
About Daniel Duku
Daniel Duku is a Ghanaian-American business executive, former Chief Executive Officer of Ghana’s Venture Capital Trust Fund, and current Chairman of Georgetown Group.
He is a governance advisor and public speaker focused on ethical leadership, institutional reform, and board effectiveness.
By: Ernest Kwabena Opare Owusu
Administrator of the Minerals Development Fund, Hannah Louisa Bissiw, has appealed to supporters of the National Democratic Congress to remain patient as the government works to create employment opportunities.
According to her on GHone TV today, March 12, 2026 the government led by John Dramani Mahama is taking steps to stabilise the economy and address several national challenges, which she believes will eventually create more jobs for the youth.
Dr Bissiw explained that the government inherited many difficulties and is working to fix issues affecting roads, water, electricity, education and the economy.
She noted that addressing these problems takes time and therefore party supporters must allow the government the space to implement its programmes.
Dr Bissiw indicated that leaders of the party, including the National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, have been engaging supporters across the country and encouraging them to remain patient.
According to her, improvements in the economy are already being seen, including stability of the Ghana cedi and a reduction in food prices.
She explained that these developments are helping to ease some of the economic pressure on citizens.
Dr Bissiw further stated that the government is making efforts to support young people, especially those who were previously denied employment opportunities.
She revealed that she has personally helped about 63 young people secure opportunities even though they were not previously known to her.
Dr Bissiw therefore appealed to party supporters to remain hopeful and continue supporting the government as it works to improve the economy and create more opportunities for the youth.
By: Jacob Aggrey
The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party, Justin Kodua Frimpong, has clarified that the party’s ongoing online membership registration is open to all Ghanaians.
He explained that the registration process allows anyone interested in joining the party to sign up, regardless of their previous political affiliation.
Mr Kodua Frimpong made the remarks on Thursday at the NPP head office in Accra while addressing concerns that supporters of other political parties could take advantage of the online system to register.
According to him, every Ghanaian has the right to register and become a member of the party if they choose to do so.
He added that even the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, could register if he wished to join the New Patriotic Party.
Mr Kodua Frimpong noted that if Mr Asiedu Nketia decides to sign up, he would be accepted like any other person who wants to become a member.
He further stated that such a decision would mean that the NDC chairman has recognised the values of the NPP.
The NPP General Secretary was providing an update to the public on the party’s membership registration exercise.
By: Jacob Aggrey
