The Office of the President has announced the cessation of board memberships for statutory boards, corporations, commissions, and councils, following the assumption of office by President John Dramani Mahama. This directive, issued in accordance with the Presidential (Transition) Act, 2012 (Act 845), marks an essential step in the transition process, ensuring compliance with Ghana’s constitutional and legislative framework.
The announcement was conveyed in a formal notice issued by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Acting Spokesperson to the President. The statement clarified that all individuals appointed by the former President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, or any former Minister of State to serve on these boards, commissions, and councils ceased to hold office as of January 7, 2025, the day President Mahama was officially sworn into office. This directive reflects the constitutional mandate to restructure and realign these bodies under the leadership of the new administration.
The statement also highlighted that the reconstitution of the affected boards, commissions, councils, and statutory corporations will proceed in due course, in line with the respective enabling laws governing their establishment and operations. The reconstitution process is expected to focus on selecting individuals with the requisite expertise and experience to advance the government’s objectives in key sectors.
To eliminate any ambiguity, the statement clarified that independent constitutional commissions are exempt from this directive. These commissions, established under the Constitution, operate autonomously and are unaffected by the cessation of board memberships. The exclusion ensures the continued independence and functionality of such entities, which are critical to upholding democratic principles and safeguarding constitutional governance.
In expressing his appreciation, President Mahama extended his gratitude to all outgoing board, commission, and council members for their dedication and service to the nation during their tenure. The President acknowledged their contributions to national development and wished them success in their future endeavors. This gesture underscores the administration’s recognition of the efforts of individuals who have served in various capacities under the previous government.
Furthermore, the directive emphasized the need for statutory bodies to seek clearance from the Chief of Staff before making any significant decisions. This measure is intended to ensure that the operations of these bodies remain aligned with the priorities and policies of the new administration during the interim period. The requirement for prior clearance reflects a commitment to accountability and proper governance, preventing any unilateral actions that may contradict the government’s agenda.
The cessation of board memberships is a standard procedure during transitions of power, allowing incoming administrations to reconstitute these entities in line with their vision for governance. This practice ensures continuity while enabling the government to align its objectives with the strategic direction of these statutory bodies. It also provides an opportunity to inject fresh perspectives and expertise into key institutions, fostering innovation and enhancing service delivery.
The Presidential (Transition) Act, 2012 (Act 845), which underpins this directive, was enacted to streamline the transition process in Ghana’s democratic governance. The Act provides a legal framework for the smooth transfer of power from one administration to another, outlining clear guidelines for the assumption of office by a new president and the restructuring of public institutions. This legislative framework has become a cornerstone of Ghana’s political stability, ensuring orderly transitions and continuity in governance.
As the reconstitution process unfolds, the public will be keenly observing the administration’s choices for these key roles. The selection process will be pivotal in determining the effectiveness of the statutory bodies in fulfilling their mandates and contributing to national development. The government’s ability to appoint competent and experienced individuals will play a significant role in advancing its policy agenda and delivering on its promises to the Ghanaian people.
In the meantime, the directive for statutory bodies to seek prior clearance from the Chief of Staff is a prudent measure to maintain oversight and ensure that decisions taken during the transition period align with the administration’s strategic priorities. This approach not only promotes accountability but also reinforces the administration’s commitment to transparency and good governance.
The announcement has also sparked discussions among stakeholders and the public regarding the broader implications of this directive. While some view it as a necessary step to ensure alignment with the new administration’s goals, others see it as an opportunity to assess and enhance the performance of statutory bodies. The reconstitution process provides a platform for the government to address gaps and inefficiencies within these institutions, strengthening their capacity to deliver on their mandates.
As Ghana continues to consolidate its democratic gains, the implementation of the Presidential (Transition) Act remains a critical component of the governance process. By ensuring orderly transitions and fostering institutional continuity, the Act has contributed to the nation’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in the region. The ongoing transition under President Mahama’s leadership is expected to uphold these principles, laying the foundation for effective governance and sustainable development.
The cessation of board memberships is a reflection of the administration’s resolve to take decisive action in shaping the future of statutory bodies. It represents an opportunity to build on past achievements while addressing emerging challenges in a rapidly changing world. As the government embarks on this important process, the emphasis on transparency, accountability, and inclusivity will be crucial in ensuring the success of its efforts.
Ghanaians now await the announcement of new appointments and the reconstitution of these boards, commissions, and councils. These developments will not only signal the government’s priorities but also set the tone for its approach to governance in the coming years. With the foundations laid by the Presidential (Transition) Act, the nation is well-positioned to navigate this transitional phase and continue its journey toward progress and prosperity.
