KATH advertises Deputy Director of Public Affairs post amid questions over incumbent

The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) has advertised the position of Deputy Director of Public Affairs, a development that has raised questions among some administrative staff because the hospital’s current Public Affairs leadership remains in post.

The vacancy announcement, issued by the hospital, is for a Deputy Director of Public Affairs on a four-year fixed-term contract. Qualified applicants are required to submit their applications by August 31, 2026.

The position involves overseeing the day-to-day administration of the Public Affairs Unit, developing corporate public relations policies, managing media relations, coordinating communication strategies and supporting the hospital’s public image.

However, sources within KATH claim the decision to advertise the position is connected to a recent media interview granted by the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Kwame Frimpong, on Channel One TV.

Mr Frimpong granted the interview following the hospital’s announcement of a temporary suspension of emergency services because of inadequate space to accommodate patients.

The announcement subsequently generated significant concern within the health sector and was followed by the suspension of KATH’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Paa Kwasi Baidoo. The development also triggered industrial action by doctors and other health workers, resulting in disruptions to healthcare delivery at the facility.

According to sources, Mr Frimpong has about three years and eight months remaining before his retirement.

The source said the advertisement has therefore come as a surprise to some administrative staff, who are questioning the basis for recruiting for a position that is currently occupied.

The source cited what it described as similar cases involving senior officials at the hospital.

According to the source, the current Director of Pharmacy was previously faced with a similar situation, but his contract was renewed without the position being advertised.

The source further claimed that a similar arrangement was extended to the former Director of Nursing Services.

Some staff members are therefore questioning why a comparable arrangement could not be considered for the Public Affairs position.

The KATH vacancy notice, however, does not state that the advertisement is linked to Mr Frimpong’s recent media interview or provide reasons for the decision to recruit for the position.

The hospital is inviting qualified applicants with the required professional and managerial experience to apply, with only shortlisted candidates to be contacted for interviews.

Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com