By: Deborah Pofara Luu
President John Dramani Mahama delivered his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on February 27, 2025, where he justified his decision to limit the number of ministers and deputy ministers to 60. This move is part of a broader strategy to reduce costs and enhance governance efficiency.
President Mahama emphasized that the large size of previous governments had placed a significant financial burden on the state, a concern, frequently voiced by Ghanaians.
“I consider the long-expressed sentiment of the Ghanaian people about the sheer size of previous administrations and the associated cost implications,” President Mahama stated.
He noted that this reduction is not merely about cutting costs but also about restructuring governance to make it more effective.
The president expressed his hope that this reform would set a precedent for future administrations to follow.
He said, a leaner administration would improve coordination and decision-making, ensuring that public funds are directed towards development projects rather than supporting an inflated government.
He also emphasized the importance of eliminating overlapping roles and bureaucratic inefficiencies that have hindered governance in the past.
“I trust that this significant reduction to sixty (60) Ministers and Deputy Ministers, including Regional Ministers—will set the stage for further reductions in the size of future governments” President Mahama said,” he added.
He urged Parliament to expedite action on the approval of his deputy ministerial nominees, emphasizing their crucial role in supporting ministers to implement the government’s agenda.
This move aligns with President Mahama’s broader agenda of cutting waste and prioritising effective governance, reinforcing his commitment to keeping his campaign promises.
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