‘I appointed you to solve problems; deliver or step aside’ – Mahama to Ministers

President John Dramani Mahama has delivered a firm message to his ministerial appointees, stressing that performance—not presence—will be the standard by which they are judged.

Speaking at the opening of a four-day Executive Leadership Programme for Ministerial Appointees on Thursday, April 24, 2025, the President reminded participants that their roles are anchored in public trust and the urgent need for change.

“You were not appointed to occupy space. You were appointed to solve problems,” Mahama stated. “The Ghanaian people expect us to deliver. And we must – not with excuses, but with results.”

He underscored the purpose of the retreat, organised in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), as more than a conventional orientation. Instead, Mahama described it as the beginning of a transformation in leadership thinking and action.

“We’re not here simply to orient ministers. We’re here to shape a collective mindset,” he said, urging the new appointees to discard outdated governance models and embrace a renewed commitment to service.

“The business-as-usual approach will not work. Indeed, it is dead and we must bury it once and for all,” he declared.

President Mahama also appealed to the conscience of his ministers, pointing to the rising expectations among Ghanaians—especially the youth, farmers, and small business owners—who are yearning for progress.

“Our young people are tired of waiting interminably. Our farmers, our workers, our entrepreneurs… want to live in dignity and prosperity,” he said.

He cautioned that accountability would not be compromised under his leadership. Ministers, he warned, must take their duties seriously—or be replaced.

“Please remember, when any of us fall short, I will not hesitate to act,” Mahama concluded.

The leadership programme brings together ministers, private sector leaders, and development partners to build a shared vision for effective, accountable governance under the new administration.