The Public Services Workers Union (PSWU) has strongly criticized the Chairman of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, over his remarks regarding television sets in government offices.
Dr. Thompson described the presence of TVs in government offices as the “ultimate symbol” of the country’s lack of seriousness toward productivity and national development, advocating for their removal in an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, March 6.
However, the PSWU has rejected his assertion, calling it an inappropriate conclusion. The union clarified that television sets are not a common feature in most public service offices.
According to Deputy General Secretary of the PSWU, John Sampa, where TV sets exist, they are typically placed in reception areas to enhance customer service, ensuring visitors conducting business are comfortable while they wait.
Additionally, in some departments—such as public relations offices—televisions are used for news monitoring.
Speaking to Citi News, John Sampa expressed concern over the repeated criticism of the public service, stating that there is a persistent effort to portray public servants as unserious, which he believes is an unfair narrative.
The union also pointed out that even private institutions have television sets in their offices without affecting productivity, dismissing claims that their presence hinders work efficiency.
Sampa further stated that if any productivity issues arise due to TV usage, management would promptly address them. However, he emphasized that no such concerns have been observed so far.
