Mahama's 120-day social contract a positive move for good governance - Seth Twum Akwaboah

Seth Tsum Akwaboah, CEO of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), praised a new 120-day performance tracker. This initiative is part of President John Mahama's administration. Akwaboah sees it as a positive step for transparency and good governance.

He spoke during the "Anatomy of Returnee Presidency" series at Gold Coast University. He shared his thoughts on the government's early performance and its effects on businesses.

Akwaboah noted that business people focus on sustainability and their bottom line. He questioned the significance of a 120-day timeframe but acknowledged its importance.

He emphasized that long-term government actions matter more than short-term results. However, he appreciated the president's commitment to measurable targets.

“The fact that a president has set indicators for measuring performance is positive,” he said. “It shows we are growing in transparency and good governance.”

Reflecting on Ghana’s political landscape, he noted improvements in issue-based campaigning and accountability.

“In previous years, campaigns were not very issue-based,” he recalled. “But recently, especially in the last two elections, they have become more focused.”

He mentioned that all political parties now have manifestos, which was not always the case. “We are gradually moving towards better political campaigning and governance,” he added.

Regarding the 120-day social contract, Akwaboah stated many promised actions have been addressed.

“He appointed ministers quickly, and launched a code of conduct,” he said. “These are all good signs.”

However, he stressed that actual outcomes need time for assessment. “As others have said, ‘the sweetness of the pudding is in the eating,’” he noted.

He raised concerns about compliance with these indicators over time. Still, Akwaboah concluded that setting clear performance indicators is commendable.

“Measuring progress based on self-set indicators is positive,” he stated. “This approach is welcome.”