Veteran filmmaker, politician and commentator Socrate Safo has joined the debate over the Ghana Ministers of State Excellence Awards, taking aim at public officials who accepted honours from private organisers without scrutinising their legitimacy.
His remarks follow the widespread criticism triggered by the 6th Ghana Ministers of State Excellence Awards, held on June 6, 2026, at the Labadi Beach Hotel. The event saw several government officials recognised, including Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo and Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
Speaking in an interview with Okay FM on June 11, 2026, Safo argued that the controversy reflects a deeper problem among public office holders who, in his view, prioritise attention and prestige over their core responsibilities.
“What are you expecting? This is Ghana for us. When we stop focusing on the work and get excited about trends, this is what happens. When anybody calls you and says that there is an award for you, can’t you question it?” he said.
He drew parallels with the widely criticised Dr UN Awards scandal, noting that some of the same voices who condemned that episode were later linked to similar situations.
“What hurts me is that we saw something similar with the Dr UN Awards. One particular person who criticised those who fell victim to the Dr UN Awards was one of those whom I saw receiving the Minister’s awards,” he revealed.
Safo also referenced a personal experience to underscore his argument about genuine recognition versus manufactured accolades.
He recounted how a young man who once frequently reached out to him for financial help later surprised him by sending money back as a gesture of appreciation.
“He initially wanted to send a large amount, but I told him to send just GH¢100. The gesture alone was enough,” Safo recounted.
According to him, the incident illustrates that true recognition should naturally come from consistent service and impact, not organised ceremonies.
“So if you do your work, the people themselves will praise and recognise you. Not any random award,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Office of the President has directed all Ministers of State, Chief Executive Officers of state institutions, and other political appointees to refrain from accepting awards from private organisations without prior approval.
The directive emphasised that public officials will now be evaluated based on measurable results, concrete impact, and effective service delivery, rather than privately organised award schemes with unclear or unverifiable standards.
Watch his reaction below.
