As the date for his inauguration approaches, Ghana’s President-elect John Dramani Mahama has voiced serious concerns over the actions of the outgoing government. Speaking during a meeting with Harriet Thompson, the UK High Commissioner to Ghana, on December 13, 2024, Mahama expressed his frustration over certain activities that could create significant challenges for his incoming administration. These include the signing of last-minute contracts and mass recruitments into state agencies.
Mahama’s concerns are rooted in observations made by the transition team of his party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC). According to him, some para-state agencies under the outgoing government have been rushing to finalize contracts before the new administration takes office on January 7, 2025. These deals could tie the hands of his administration, committing it to financial obligations that might not align with its priorities or plans.
In addition to the contracts, Mahama pointed out reports of mass recruitment into state institutions. While these recruitments might appear as job opportunities on the surface, he fears that they could come with long-term financial liabilities that will strain the government’s budget. This, he said, is a deliberate move to saddle his administration with unnecessary burdens before it even gets the chance to settle into governance.
Mahama took the opportunity to urge the UK High Commissioner to advocate for a smooth and responsible transition. He emphasized that the outgoing government should prioritize the nation’s stability over partisan politics and avoid creating conditions that could destabilize the economy or slow down progress.
The President-elect stressed the importance of transparency, mutual respect, and cooperation during the handover process. He noted that transitions are a critical part of democratic governance and should be handled with care to ensure that the incoming administration can focus on delivering its mandate to the people without unnecessary distractions or hurdles.
Speaking with a tone of determination, Mahama reiterated his commitment to serving Ghanaians diligently. He assured the public that his team is closely monitoring these developments and will take necessary steps to address any challenges that arise. However, he also called on all stakeholders, including international partners like the UK, to help ensure that the transition process is carried out smoothly and responsibly.
For many Ghanaians, Mahama’s concerns resonate deeply. Transitions between governments are often fraught with tensions, and this latest episode highlights the importance of building stronger institutional frameworks to guide such processes. Observers believe that issues like last-minute contracts and mass recruitment not only undermine the incoming government but also erode public trust in the political system.
With just weeks until his inauguration, Mahama has made it clear that his administration will not be intimidated by these challenges. He expressed confidence in his team’s ability to navigate the difficulties and deliver on its promises to the people of Ghana. Nevertheless, he warned that such actions by the outgoing government could have long-term consequences for the nation, including potential economic instability.
The President-elect also used the platform to reaffirm his vision for Ghana. His plans include fostering economic growth, creating sustainable jobs, and addressing pressing social issues like education and healthcare. Mahama believes that these goals can only be achieved if the new administration is given the space and resources to operate without unnecessary hindrances.
Harriet Thompson, the UK High Commissioner, expressed her interest in the situation and reiterated her country’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s democratic processes. The UK has long been a partner in Ghana’s development journey, and Thompson’s presence at the meeting was seen as a gesture of goodwill and encouragement for a peaceful transition.
The transition period is a crucial time for any nation, and Mahama’s call for accountability and cooperation is a reminder of the responsibilities that come with leadership. As January 7 approaches, all eyes will be on Ghana to see how the two administrations handle this delicate process. For now, Mahama’s focus remains on ensuring that his government is not derailed before it even begins its work.
The President-elect’s message is clear: while political differences are inevitable, the ultimate goal should always be to serve the people and protect the nation’s future. He hopes that the outgoing administration will heed this call and work towards a transition that prioritizes the needs of Ghanaians above all else.
As Ghanaians look forward to the swearing-in of their new leader, there is a sense of hope that the challenges of today will pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. Mahama’s determination to address these concerns head-on is a testament to his readiness to lead and his commitment to building a better Ghana for all.
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