President John Dramani Mahama, in his address during the swearing-in of the first batch of ministers on January 22, 2025, emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and a commitment to high standards of governance in his new administration.
Reflecting on the challenges the country faces, particularly in light of the state of the economy, Mahama urged the ministers to be open with the public about the situation in their respective sectors.
“It is important, in the spirit of openness and transparency, to inform the people of Ghana about the true state of affairs as we inherited it,” President Mahama said.
He called on the ministers to communicate honestly with the nation, acknowledging the difficulties while also working tirelessly to resolve them.
He also made a pointed reference to the need for judicial reforms, particularly for the Attorney General, who he tasked with leading efforts to overhaul the country’s judicial system.
“The people of Ghana desire a system that guarantees equal justice for all and nothing less,” Mahama stated.
He stressed that the legal system must become more accessible and fair, irrespective of one’s background or status.
President Mahama’s remarks also acknowledged the enormous responsibility his government faces, particularly in the context of the current economic situation. “It is quite clear that so much needs to be done in so short a time,” he said.
“But I assure the people of Ghana that this government will rise to the challenge and will reset our country.”
He reiterated that the citizens of Ghana, through their votes, had set a high bar for governance, and it was crucial that the new administration live up to their expectations.
Mahama also reminded the ministers that the people’s expectations had shifted, highlighting that Ghanaians would no longer tolerate disrespectful behavior from government officials.
“The days of tolerance for disrespectful gas lighting by government officials are well and truly over,” he warned, underscoring that citizens would take firm action against any administration that failed to serve them effectively.
Mahama urged his ministers to serve with humility and candor, emphasizing that all authority stems from the people.
“We serve at the pleasure of the Ghanaian people,” he said. “We must exhibit tolerance for their views and work to meet their aspirations.”
He made it clear that his administration would not tolerate arrogance or disrespect, urging the ministers to adhere to principles of modesty and prudence in their governance.
President Mahama also reminded the ministers of their duty to the people.
“Modesty and prudence must be the guiding principle upon which you, myself, and our Vice President fashion our governance,” he said.
He reaffirmed that the government would be held accountable by the people for the trust placed in them and that the era of “business as usual” was over.
By: Shadrack Odame Agyare| Metrotvonline.com | Ghana
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