Lead with vision, not guesswork – Mahama charges ministers

President John Dramani Mahama aims to create a lasting legacy. He wants his current term to be marked by impactful leadership.

On Thursday, he spoke to ministers and top officials at the Executive Leadership Retreat in Ada. Mahama emphasized that performance will define his government, not politics.

“This is my legacy term. I intend to make it count,” he said. He challenged his team to rise above mediocrity and deliver real change for Ghanaians.

Mahama urged ministers to lead with purpose and honesty. “Lead your sectors with vision and integrity,” he stated. He encouraged them to champion innovation and make decisions based on facts, not guesswork.

He reminded officials that public service requires humility and accountability. “Spend public funds wisely, reject opulence,” he advised. He stressed their duty is to the people of Ghana, not personal gain or political survival.

“You were appointed to solve problems,” he said firmly. “The Ghanaian people expect results, not excuses.”

Mahama also called for greater Ghanaian control over natural resources. “We must have an indigenisation programme for our resources,” he explained. A policy on indigenous participation in resource exploitation will be developed soon.

He addressed a broader challenge in West African governance as well. Mahama echoed concerns from former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan about short presidential terms.

“In Nigeria and Ghana, our tenure is so short,” he noted. Most countries have five-year terms; only Nigeria and Ghana have four years. “What can someone do in four years?” he asked, highlighting the need for effective leadership during this time.