Photo: President John Dramani Mahama
Decisive Moves, Bold Actions
One month into his presidency, John Dramani Mahama has wasted no time in making bold decisions and implementing swift actions to tackle the challenges left behind by the previous administration. While some might argue that a month is too short a period to judge a government’s performance, Mahama’s early moves indicate a leader determined to restore confidence in governance and set the nation on the right track.
Stopping ‘DUMSO’ in Its Tracks
Ghanaians had barely settled into the Mahama era when a familiar nightmare threatened to resurface—’DUMSO.’ With the Akufo-Addo-led government deliberately leaving the energy sector in dire straits—fuel shortages, neglected maintenance, and mismanagement—the country was on the brink of widespread power outages. Mahama wasted no time. His administration took immediate steps to secure fuel supply and carry out emergency maintenance, preventing a return to prolonged blackouts. This decisive move reassured businesses and households that his government would not allow a return to the dark days of unreliable electricity.
Averting a Major Crisis in Senior High Schools
Another pressing issue that demanded urgent attention was the looming food shortage in Senior High Schools across the country. The previous government had failed to procure food supplies, leaving students at risk of hunger. Within weeks, Mahama’s team swung into action, ensuring that food was provided and the potential crisis averted. This intervention demonstrated not only efficiency but also a deep concern for the welfare of the nation’s youth.
Delivering on Constitutional Review Promise
Mahama campaigned on a promise to address flaws in the Constitution, and he has already taken concrete steps in that direction. A Constitutional Review Committee has been set up to consolidate previous recommendations into a single, coherent document. This is a crucial step towards governance reform and addressing long-standing constitutional concerns.
Trimming the Fat: A Leaner, More Efficient Government
Ghanaians have long demanded a reduction in the size of government, and Mahama has listened. He has cut down the number of ministerial portfolios from 29 under Akufo-Addo to 23, eliminating six ministries while creating others to enhance efficiency. His administration has also moved swiftly to appoint ministers—nominating all cabinet members within just 14 days of taking office. While he pledged a maximum of 60 ministers, he has so far named 56, leaving room for just four more should he decide to stick to his original promise.
Revamping Education: A New Era of Policy Thinking
Recognizing the challenges within the education sector, Mahama has taken proactive steps by setting up a team to plan a National Education Forum. This initiative aims to bring together top thinkers, educationists, and stakeholders to discuss and devise strategies for revamping Ghana’s education system. His approach indicates a commitment to long-term solutions rather than short-term fixes.
Economic Recovery: Bringing Experts to the Table
The economy remains a major concern, and Mahama has wasted no time in assembling experts to tackle the crisis. He has constituted a committee to plan a National Economic Dialogue, an initiative that will engage policymakers, economists, and industry leaders to craft strategies for sustainable economic recovery. Unlike the past administration’s haphazard approach, Mahama is setting the stage for well-thought-out economic policies.
Demanding Accountability: Addressing Unresolved Security Issues
Security concerns have also been on Mahama’s radar. He has ordered investigations into the recent mining-related killings in Obuasi, showing his commitment to justice. Additionally, he has directed the Inspector General of Police to provide reports on the violent incidents and killings during the 2020 and 2024 elections. These actions demonstrate his resolve to ensure that law and order are upheld.
Cutting Down on Government Luxury: No More First-Class Flights
In a bid to cut down on government expenditure and promote a culture of modesty, Mahama has issued a directive prohibiting his appointees from flying first class on official travels. This decision aligns with his broader goal of fiscal discipline and setting the right example for public office holders.
Additional Key Actions Taken by Mahama’s Administration
• Restoring Peace in Bawku: Commenced discussions with key stakeholders to restore peace to the conflict-ridden area.
• Gold Board Formation: Constituted a committee to set up the Gold Board for proper regulation of the gold sector.
• Cracking Down on Illegal Mining: Issued a directive through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for an immediate halt to illegal mining activities in forests and water bodies.
• Reducing University Residential Fees: Reduced the University of Ghana’s residential facility fees from GHS3,000 to GHS2,500 to ease financial burdens on students.
• Halting State Land Sales: Suspended the sale of state lands and requested the Lands Commission to submit a detailed report on all state land transactions.
• Reversing the Culture of Silence in Free SHS: Issued a directive to the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) to openly highlight challenges associated with the implementation of the Free SHS programme.
• Reducing Hajj Fares: Lowered Hajj fares from GHS75,000 to GHS62,000 per pilgrim to make the pilgrimage more affordable.
• National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving: Instituted a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving Service to unify the nation.
• Ending the National Cathedral Project: Halted the use of public funds for the National Cathedral project, redirecting resources to urgent national needs.
• Strengthening Fire Safety in Markets: Tightened surveillance at markets and directed the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to position fire tenders closer to all major marketplaces.
• Providing Relief for Fire Victims: Donated GHS1 million to victims of the recent Kantamanto market fire disaster.
• Uniting Western Region Chiefs: Successfully mediated and united the Western Region Chiefs after five years of division within the House of Chiefs.
Conclusion: A President in Action
John Mahama’s first month in office has been characterized by decisive leadership, swift action, and a clear sense of direction. From tackling ‘DUMSO’ to preventing a school food crisis, reducing government size, and setting the stage for economic recovery, he has shown that his administration is ready to work. While challenges remain, Mahama’s proactive approach signals a presidency that is serious about delivering results and rebuilding trust in governance. The next few months will be crucial, but one thing is clear—Ghana’s new leader is off to a strong start.
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