Anne Sansa Daly And Her Make-Up Credentials

I have previously raised concerns about how Board memberships are determined in this country. I firmly believe that appointments to Boards of Directors should be strictly merit-based, with a clear emphasis on sector knowledge and professional expertise.

This is why I take issue with the appointment of individuals to Boards when they lack the requisite experience or understanding of the sector they’re supposed to govern. The effectiveness and success of any corporation rest heavily on the calibre of its Board.

This brings me to the curious case of Anne-Sansa Daly’s appointment to the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Board.

Let’s be clear: while Board positions can be filled by qualified Ghanaians who are not necessarily medical professionals, due diligence in verifying appointees’ claims is paramount. In Anne Sansa Daly’s case, it is evident that the processes of verification and thorough scrutiny were not properly carried out, especially considering she is not known within the medical community.

While we criticise those who allowed their biases or lack of diligence to recommend her for such an important role, it is also worth questioning the media houses that gave her a platform to dispense health advice to unsuspecting listeners and viewers.

Whoever vouched for Anne Sansa Daly’s appointment as a “medical doctor” has not only failed in their due diligence but has also embarrassed the appointing authority by creating this public relations fiasco.

Anne Sansa Daly took advantage of the trust placed in her, much like Delilah did to Samson. Kevin Taylor’s trust in her was betrayed, and now he’s left to pick up the pieces of a credibility scandal.

More importantly, Anne Sansa Daly should be held accountable for misrepresenting her credentials in her bid to secure a Board seat in a state institution. Falsifying professional qualifications is not only unethical but could also breach legal codes relating to fraud and misrepresentation.

It’s baffling to see her continue to insist on her “doctor” title. In one of her defences, she claims she is a doctor of herbal medicine, not a scientific medical doctor. This is misleading at best and potentially fraudulent at worst, given the nature of her appointment.

It is a reminder that no one is above scrutiny, and Ghana’s institutions deserve the very best, not individuals with make-believe credentials.

By Charles McCarthy