The Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has appealed to the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to show leniency toward Ms. Bernice Aboagye, the staff nurse at the Nkenkaasu District Hospital who was recently issued a query letter over alleged unprofessional remarks made against him on social media.
In a press release issued by the Ministry of Health on Sunday, October 12, 2025, and signed by its spokesperson, Tony Goodman, the Minister acknowledged the GHS’s swift response in upholding professional standards but urged the Service to “temper justice with mercy” in handling the matter.
“The Minister commends the Ghana Health Service for promptly upholding the tenets of professionalism and the Code of Conduct prescribed for health workers,” the statement read. “However, Hon. Akandoh has appealed to the Service to temper justice with mercy in addressing the matter.”
Hon. Akandoh emphasized that he and the government remain committed to promoting tolerance, openness, and freedom of expression, adding that constructive criticism is essential for the growth of the health sector. “Both the Minister and the government welcome divergent views and constructive criticism as part of his commitment to fostering tolerance and openness to diverse opinions,” the statement continued.
While underscoring the importance of professionalism, the Minister urged all health workers to express their views responsibly and respectfully, cautioning against the use of offensive or abusive language. He noted that respectful communication helps maintain the dignity of the profession and supports the healthy growth and development of Ghana’s health system.
“The Ministry wishes to emphasize that it has no objection to demonstrations, as they are legitimate expressions of frustration and a constitutional right of every citizen,” the statement said. “However, the Ministry will not condone the use of abusive language or acts of indiscipline during such demonstrations.”
The statement further reminded health professionals across the country to be measured and circumspect in their public engagements and social media communications, particularly when addressing sensitive matters or public officials.
The call for clemency comes amid public debate following the circulation of the nurse’s query letter online last week. The letter, signed by Dr. Samuel Freeman Mensah, Medical Superintendent of the Nkenkaasu District Hospital, cited Ms. Aboagye for using “unprintable, inappropriate and scandalous” words against the Minister of Health, an action said to have drawn widespread concern.
Hon. Akandoh’s appeal for amnesty, however, has been widely viewed as a gesture of leadership, humility, and commitment to maintaining unity within the health sector while reinforcing the principles of professionalism and mutual respect.
