There is simmering tensio in Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG) located with headquarters in Akyem Tafo in Eastern Region as Cocoa Research Institute Workers Union (CRIWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Ghana, has petitioned the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of COCOBOD for the immediate removal of Dr. Francis Kwame Padi, the Executive Director of the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG).
The petition signed by Andrews Awudja, Chris Osei Asante, National Chairman and General Secretary respectively among other executives cited decline in research work, autocratic leadership, and low staff morale as key reasons for the call.
The union alleges that research activity at CRIG has significantly declined under Dr. Padi’s leadership. According to the petition, research proposals are now rejected without recourse to the Research Review Committee, which has become almost defunct.
“Research publications are now contingent on the Executive Director’s approval, with papers from individuals he has personal issues with being rejected without scientific justification,” the petition stated.
Monthly scientific seminars, which provided a platform for knowledge sharing and peer review, have also been canceled, stifling innovation and learning.
Regardinf allegations of autocratic leadership style, the petition further accuses Dr. Padi of operating a one-man leadership style, disregarding constructive suggestions and dissenting views from staff. Social programs, such as sports, which promote staff well-being, have been indirectly stopped.
“Promotions have become a tool for instilling fear and suppressing staff, with unilateral decisions made to alter promotion recommendations without consulting the Promotion Committee,” the union stated.
Leaders of the Workers Union advocating for staff welfare have reportedly been subjected to abuse and threats, violating the Labour Act (Act 651), 2003.
The union also stressed on the low morale among staff, citing the lack of sponsorship for research scientists to attend conferences and the refusal to hold staff durbars for visiting COCOBOD dignitaries.
“The current state of CRIG under Dr. Padi’s leadership is one of decline, fear, and hopelessness,” the petition stated. “Staff morale is at an all-time low, and the Institute’s reputation as a premier research institution is eroding.”
