The President of the Professionals Forum of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sam Pee Yalley, has criticised former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia over his recent remarks on mass dismissals within the public sector.

In an interview on JoyNews' Newsfile on Saturday, February 22, Mr Yalley questioned Bawumia’s credibility in appealing for the reinstatement of dismissed workers, highlighting the former Vice President’s inaction during his eight years in office.

“As for Dr. Bawumia’s epistle, I’m used to it. I’ve listened to him several times, and he often comes out with opinions—some very legitimate, others purely political. Now, Dr. Bawumia, you were the Vice President of this country for eight years. The people you are now appealing for—why didn’t you employ them during your tenure?” he asked.

His comment comes after Dr Bawumia described the dismissals of public sector workers recruited after December 7 as unfair and undemocratic, urging President Mahama to be a "President for all" by immediately halting the termination of "legitimately employed" Ghanaians.

• Read also: Bawumia condemns ‘arbitrary dismissals of legitimately employed Ghanaians’ by Mahama gov’t

However, Mr Yalley argued that the former Vice President's appeal to the current administration lacks merit, especially given his failure to advocate for such employment initiatives during his time in power.

“The appeal, whether accepted or not, is unfounded. If you, as Vice President, didn’t appeal to your President at the time to employ these people, I don’t think it’s appropriate for you to assume that role now and begin this appeal to a new President,” Mr Yalley asserted.

Addressing further arguments, he dismissed comparisons between the NDC’s proposed 24-hour economy policy and Mr Bawumia’s recent calls.

• Read also: Create new jobs and stop dismissing innocent workers – Bawumia tells Mahama

He stressed that while governance is a continuum, each administration has its unique vision and policies, which should be respected without undue external interference.

“I’ve heard people argue that because we plan to implement a 24-hour economy, we should be open to employing more people. But did we ever say someone else should handle our appointments for us? We have our own strategy and approach to managing this country."