The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has appealed to the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to show compassion toward a nurse who was filmed using “unprintable and inappropriate words” against him during a recent protest by unpaid nurses.
The nurse, identified as Bernice Aboagye, was issued a query letter by Dr. Samuel Freeman Mensah, Medical Superintendent at the Ghana Health Service, on October 10, 2025. The letter cited her conduct in a viral video that circulated on social media, in which she was seen making disparaging remarks about the Health Minister amid demonstrations by aggrieved nurses.
Read Also: DVLA to Roll Out Biometric Driver’s Licences and Vehicle Permits in 2026
Following the incident, the GHS initiated disciplinary proceedings, citing multiple breaches of the Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Procedures. The nurse was directed to respond by October 24, 2025, explaining why she should not face sanctions for:
-
Using inappropriate and disrespectful language toward the Minister for Health, in violation of Section 8.1(c);
-
Engaging in abusive behaviour toward the Minister, contrary to Section 8.1(l); and
-
Tarnishing the corporate image of the Service, in breach of Section 4.1(d).
Minister Appeals for Mercy
In a statement dated October 12, 2025, and signed by Tony Goodman, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, Mr. Akandoh called for leniency, urging the GHS to “temper justice with mercy” in handling the case.
While commending the GHS for its swift action to uphold professionalism and discipline within the health sector, the Minister stressed that both he and the government are open to criticism and diverse opinions.
“We welcome divergent views and constructive criticism as part of our commitment to tolerance and openness,” he stated.
Mr. Akandoh, however, advised health workers to express their grievances in a respectful and responsible manner, noting that professionalism and civility are vital to strengthening the health sector.
Ministry Reaffirms Support for Peaceful Protests
The Ministry of Health reiterated that it has no objection to peaceful protests, describing them as a legitimate and constitutional right. Nonetheless, it cautioned that acts of indiscipline and the use of abusive language during demonstrations will not be tolerated.
The Ministry further urged all health professionals to exercise caution in their public communications and social media engagements, emphasising the need to protect the image and integrity of the health profession.
Stroy By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem