The plane can’t fly without a pilot – Dr. Atuahene on Asiamah’s BoG appointment

Banking expert Dr. Richmond Akwasi Atuahene has come to the defense of Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiamah, the newly appointed acting Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), amid criticism over his alleged involvement in the collapse of UniBank and UT Bank.

Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Atuahene questioned why some were opposing Asiamah’s appointment, emphasizing that he had already suffered consequences, just like others who had been involved in the case—some of whom had even passed away.

“Asiamah suffered, and even those he was in court with are no longer alive. So why are you against his appointment? You don’t like constructive criticism?” he asked.

His remarks come in response to criticism from the Minority in Parliament, led by Dr. Gideon Boako, MP for Tano North, who condemned President Mahama’s decision to discontinue criminal charges against Asiamah. The Minority argues that the charges should still proceed, raising concerns about accountability in governance.

However, Dr. Atuahene expressed frustration, questioning why the NPP had not acted against Asiamah when they were in power but were now vocal about his appointment under President John Dramani Mahama.

“The NPP is just making noise. Do they even have integrity? The plane cannot fly without a pilot,” he remarked, highlighting the need for strong leadership at the central bank.

He dismissed the Minority’s push for prosecution, adding that their threat to take the matter to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was insignificant.

“The IMF doesn’t even think about Ghana. They should stop talking and move on,” he stated.

Dr. Atuahene also advised Asiamah to surround himself with experienced professionals.

“He should work with competent and well-experienced bankers,” he urged.

Additionally, he accused politicians of attempting to manipulate the system for their own gain. He revealed that he had received threats for speaking out on issues related to the IMF and the banking sector.

“Some people threaten me, and top security officials have advised me to be careful about where I go. Is education meant for only a few people?” he questioned.

He further criticized the NPP government, blaming them for Ghana’s economic difficulties and the challenges facing the central bank.

“The NPP government has led Ghana into a ditch,” he lamented, expressing disappointment over the state of the economy.