A nation's greatness is measured by its leaders' integrity. The future of Ghana is not a gift, but a responsibility. Leadership is not about power, but about empowering others.
The current government, led by President John Mahama, has been entrusted with a historic mandate to transform Ghana and deliver on the aspirations of its people. With overwhelming support from Ghanaians, the government has no excuse to fail. The previous administration's shortcomings, including a lack of accountability, corruption, and disrespect for traditional leaders, have created a sense of urgency for change.
President Mahama's commitment to humility and good governance is a refreshing departure from the arrogance and disrespect that characterized the previous government.
His gesture of asking chiefs to sit down instead of standing to greet him restored dignity to these traditional leaders, who had been disrespected by former President Akufo-Addo's behaviour.
The government's pledge to uphold free speech and expression, as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution, is also a significant step forward.
The acknowledgment of Ghana's decline on the press freedom index and the commitment to restore the country's reputation for media freedom are essential for promoting transparency and accountability.
To effectively evaluate the performance of appointees, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of what they aim to achieve and the current state of affairs. Regular updates on progress and achievements are vital to maintaining transparency and accountability. This information allows for comparisons between planned goals and actual outcomes, facilitating informed decision-making and constructive feedback.
I was overjoyed to hear Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson's pledge that he will turn the economy around favourably.
The reduction of ministers from over 100 to 60 sends a powerful message about the government's commitment to judiciously managing resources.
This decision has symbolic value, demonstrating that governance is not about personal gain, but about serving the people. By streamlining the government, the administration is signaling that resources will be utilised efficiently, and not squandered on unnecessary comforts for those in power.
However, it is essential to consider not only the numbers but also the question of efficiency. The relationship between public and civil servants is a vital aspect of a country's governance.
Having a large number of civil servants can be both beneficial and challenging. While it is essential to maintain a sizable workforce to implement government policies and programmes, it is equally crucial to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
Reducing the number of political appointees can be an effective way to streamline the government and minimize unnecessary expenses. Unlike civil servants, who remain employed regardless of changes in government, political appointees often face consequences when their party loses power.
The current government has a unique opportunity to transform Ghana and deliver on the aspirations of its people. The vast majority of his appointees are young. This shows that President Mahama is a great listener. This means appointees must also meet expectations.
They should never become intoxicated with power. With a commitment to humility, good governance, and transparency, the administration can restore trust in state institutions and public office.
The reduction of ministers, the pledge to uphold free speech and expression, and the emphasis on efficiency and effectiveness are all steps in the right direction.
However, it is essential to remain vigilant and ensure that the government stays on course. The eyes of the nation are upon them, and the time to deliver is now.
The new government has been entrusted with a historic mandate to transform Ghana and deliver on the aspirations of its people. Failure is not an option.
With unwavering commitment, visionary leadership, and a genuine dedication to the public good, the administration has a unique opportunity to usher in a new era of prosperity, stability, and progress for all Ghanaians.
The eyes of the nation are upon them, and the time to deliver is now. We will never hesitate to critique even the slightest error.
A leader's legacy is built on the bridges they build, not the walls they construct. The test of leadership is not in making promises, but in keeping them. The rest of the world is watching.
Evans Mawunyo Tsikata
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