President-elect John Dramani Mahama has announced a comprehensive plan for his first 120 days in office, outlining a social contract designed to implement key reforms and policies essential for Ghana’s progress. This initiative, which is set to be inaugurated soon, aims to address pressing national issues and foster a government that operates efficiently and transparently.
During a recent courtesy call from the Apostolic Fathers, Mahama expressed his confidence in achieving significant milestones within the specified timeframe. He emphasized the importance of actionable goals, stating, “We have carefully selected the things that we thought were achievable in 120 days. So we are going to work diligently to ensure that at the end of the 120 days, we can check each of them off.” This commitment reflects his understanding of the urgency required to restore public trust and confidence in government.
Among the key objectives of Mahama’s 120-day agenda is the swift nomination of cabinet ministers, which he aims to complete within the first 14 days of his presidency. This rapid approach is intended to facilitate a seamless transition of power and ensure that his administration can quickly address the challenges facing the country. The efficient appointment of ministers will enable the new government to establish its direction and priorities without unnecessary delays.
In addition to appointing ministers, Mahama is focused on creating a lean and efficient government structure by day 90. This initiative is critical for reducing bureaucracy, enhancing service delivery, and ensuring that government resources are utilized effectively. By streamlining operations, the administration intends to create a more responsive government that can better serve the needs of its citizens.
Accountability and integrity are at the heart of Mahama’s social contract. He has proposed the implementation of a robust code of conduct and standards for all government officials. This initiative aims to uphold the principles of probity and transparency in governance, ensuring that public servants adhere to high ethical standards. Mahama stated, “We want to raise accountability to another level. It’s in our constitution that we should uphold the principles of probity and accountability, so it’s a constitutional obligation for us to do so.” This commitment to accountability is a critical step toward restoring faith in the government and addressing concerns about corruption and mismanagement.
Another significant aspect of Mahama’s plan is the convening of a national economic dialogue focused on fiscal consolidation. This dialogue will bring together key stakeholders, including business leaders, civil society organizations, and economists, to discuss strategies for stabilizing the economy and promoting sustainable growth. The need for such a dialogue has never been more urgent, as Ghana faces economic challenges that require collaborative solutions. By engaging various sectors of society, Mahama aims to foster a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for the country’s economic future.
Mahama’s economic agenda also includes the elimination of several levies that have been a source of public discontent. He has pledged to scrap the controversial E-Levy, COVID-19 levy, 10% betting levy, and emissions levy, all of which have placed additional financial burdens on Ghanaians. By removing these levies, the administration intends to alleviate financial pressure on citizens and stimulate economic activity. Mahama’s commitment to reducing taxes reflects a broader strategy to create a more conducive environment for business and investment, ultimately driving economic growth and job creation.
The president-elect’s vision for governance is rooted in a belief that meaningful change is possible through decisive action and a commitment to the public good. Mahama recognizes the need to move beyond partisan politics and work collaboratively with all stakeholders to achieve the nation’s goals. His social contract is not merely a set of promises; it is a call to action for all Ghanaians to participate in the rebuilding of their country.
As Mahama prepares to take office, there is a palpable sense of anticipation among the public regarding his administration’s potential to deliver on its promises. The emphasis on accountability, transparency, and citizen engagement resonates strongly with Ghanaians who are eager for positive change. The inauguration of the committee responsible for overseeing the 120-day plan will mark a significant step toward operationalizing these goals and ensuring that the administration remains focused on its commitments.
In conclusion, President-elect John Dramani Mahama’s 120-day social contract represents a comprehensive approach to governance, prioritizing accountability, efficiency, and economic reform. By setting clear objectives and engaging citizens in the process, Mahama aims to foster a government that is responsive to the needs of its people. As the country looks forward to a new administration, the hope for a brighter future rests on the successful implementation of this ambitious agenda.
