Mahama’s first 120 days social contract: 18 days to go, what’s left?

President John Dramani Mahama's 120-day social contract is nearing its end. With 102 days completed, only 18 days remain. Out of 26 campaign commitments, 12 have been fulfilled. Some are in progress, but many remain untouched. The nation expects him to deliver on his promises.

Promises Fulfilled

Cabinet appointments were made quickly after his inauguration. He nominated ministers within two weeks. Although he still needs to appoint four deputy ministers, this promise is mostly fulfilled.

The government has reduced the number of portfolios to cut costs. A national economic dialogue was held to create a fiscal strategy. An education dialogue brought together experts and citizens for a new vision.

Environmental initiatives like 'Tree for Life' and 'Blue Water Initiative' were launched. The One Million Coders Programme aims for digital transformation and youth jobs. The MahamaCares Health Fund is now active, providing health support.

Taxes such as the E-Levy and Bet Tax have been abolished. This change benefits Ghanaians and small businesses alike. Funding has been allocated for a Women’s Development Bank in the national budget.

High-profile criminal investigations have reopened, including Ahmed Suale’s case. Compensation is being provided for victims of the Akosombo spillage.

In Progress

Allocations for free sanitary pads for students are pending distribution. Investigations into projects like the National Cathedral are ongoing. The ‘No-Academic-Fee’ policy has yet to be implemented.

Yet to Be Fulfilled

Several pledges remain unaddressed or show no public progress:

- Ban on illegal mining in forest reserves
- Ban on political appointees buying state assets
- Code of conduct for government appointees
- Legal documents needed for a 24-hour economy
- Establishment of the Accelerated Export Development Council (AEDC)
- Free tertiary education for persons with disabilities (PWDs)
- Launch of the ‘Black Star Experience’ tourism brand
- Independent probe into Akosombo/Kpong Dam spillage
- Review of Customs (Amendment) Act 2020 regarding salvaged vehicles
- Scholarship bill to curb cronyism and nepotism
- Abolition of COVID Levy (still in effect)
- Purge of vigilante elements in state security agencies
- Job creation programs like Adwumawura and National Apprenticeship
- Realignment of SOEs into profit-making enterprises

The Verdict: Will 120 Days Be Enough?

Mahama has fulfilled at least 11 promises, with several more underway. However, many key policies remain unfulfilled. His administration has shown speed in economic relief but lacks major reforms.

Ghanaians gave him another chance based on clear promises with deadlines. The next 18 days will determine if this presidency gains momentum or misses opportunities. Time is running out.