Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), has pledged to limit ministerial appointments to a maximum of 50 if he is elected as Ghana’s next president. The announcement was made during the NPP’s manifesto launch in Takoradi on Sunday, August 18, where Dr. Bawumia emphasized the need for efficient governance through a streamlined government structure.
“I will have no more than 50 ministers in my government,” Dr. Bawumia declared, underscoring his commitment to achieving greater effectiveness with a leaner administration. The Vice President highlighted that a more compact government would not only enhance efficiency but also promote better resource management.
As part of broader cost-saving measures, Dr. Bawumia also revealed plans to shift from outright purchases to leasing essential goods such as vehicles and printing equipment. This strategic move, he explained, would reduce maintenance costs and result in significant savings for the government annually.
“This approach will not only reduce waste but also incentivize the private sector to invest in expansion and job creation,” Dr. Bawumia said. “By moving towards leasing rather than outright purchases, the private sector will assume responsibility for maintenance, allowing the government to save substantial amounts each year across various ministries.”
Dr. Bawumia’s focus on a lean government resonates with similar calls from John Mahama, the flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). On July 8, during a media interaction in Accra, Mr. Mahama reaffirmed his own commitment to reducing the size of government, criticizing the current administration for what he described as an overly bloated government structure.
Mr. Mahama vowed to limit his government to no more than 60 ministers and deputy ministers if elected. “My leaner government will be the cleanest government Ghana has ever experienced. It will serve Ghanaians far better and set higher standards for future governments,” he said, arguing that the current size of government under President Akufo-Addo has contributed to economic mismanagement.
Both Dr. Bawumia and Mr. Mahama have now made efficiency and fiscal discipline key aspects of their respective campaign strategies, highlighting the shared view that reducing the size of government is crucial to curbing waste and enhancing public service delivery.
Source: GhanaFeed.Com