President John Dramani Mahama has urged members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and other well-meaning Ghanaians to explore alternative ways of contributing to the country’s development, emphasizing that leadership extends beyond ministerial appointments.
He made these remarks at the Jubilee House on Friday, January 24, 2024, during the swearing-in ceremony for his second group of ministers.
President Mahama’s comments come amidst reports of dissatisfaction among some party members over the exclusion of their preferred candidates from ministerial positions.
Anger over the exclusion of a Member of Parliament from the ministerial list reportedly prompted some youth in Bole-Bamboi to burn car tyres near the home of President Mahama’s late father. Similarly, NDC supporters in the Effutu constituency have expressed displeasure with the party’s failure to nominate James Kofi Annan as their parliamentary candidate for the 2024 elections.
Addressing these concerns, President Mahama underscored the importance of maintaining a lean government, given the current economic challenges.
“Putting together such a lean government means that very qualified and well-meaning people, both within the NDC and outside the party, may not see their dream of serving in a ministerial capacity realized at this moment. The exigencies of the time dictate that we change course and gravitate towards an era where emphasis is placed on efficiency and prudent management of our resources,” he explained.
He added, “To the many highly qualified members of the NDC who fought hard to ensure our return to office and who wish to contribute their talents and skills to the nation, know that there are many other ways to make your presence and expertise beneficial to Ghana.
“There remain numerous positions outside ministerial roles, and in due course, you may be called to serve in these capacities. We aim to build a nation where the best and brightest serve their country, even without overt partisanship.”
The ministers sworn into office are:
Ahmed Ibrahim: Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs
Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare: Minister for Trade, Industry, and Agribusiness
Agnes Naa Momo Lartey: Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection
Abla Dzifa Gomashie: Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts
George Opare Addo: Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment
Emelia Arthur: Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development
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