Bawumia’s decision to appoint 50 ministers vindicates Mahama. This is according to Mr. Asiedu Nketie, the Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who contends that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s decision to reduce the number of ministers aligns with former President John Mahama’s stance on the issue.
Bawumia’s Decision To Appoint 50 Ministers Vs Mahama’s Decision To Appoint Less Than 60 Ministers
Nketia reacted to Bawumia’s recent national address, where he proposed capping the number of ministers and deputy ministers at a maximum of 50 if he assumes the presidency.
The NDC’s flagbearer had previously pledged to appoint fewer than 60 ministers if elected in the 2024 election.
The 2024 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, says his administration will not have more than 50 ministers and deputy ministers.
This follows numerous calls on the Akufo-Addo-led government by stakeholders, including the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and civil society organizations, to reduce the size of his government to lessen the pressure on the country’s coffers.
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Addressing the nation in Accra on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, to outline his vision and priorities for Ghana, Dr Bawumia said running an efficient system of governance will require fewer ministers.
According to him, his government will enhance the role of the private sector along with fiscal and administrative decentralization while improving how systems and institutions function.
This, he said, would lead to greater efficiency by cutting down on waste and ensuring value for money in procurement.
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“The move towards the private sector provision of many public services would create fiscal space of at least 3% of GDP.
“This represents a major paradigm shift. Additionally, an efficient system of governance will require even fewer ministers. Therefore, I would have no more than 50 ministers and deputy ministers,’’ he added.
Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, Nketia argued that Bawumia’s move appears competitive, aimed at surpassing Mahama without fully considering the consequences.
He remarked, “You are vindicating Mahama when you say you want to reduce the number of ministers to 50. You are saying you agree with Mahama; that is the way to go.”