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Ghana’s ministerial appointments have fluctuated significantly under various administrations, reflecting differing priorities. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) appointed 82 ministers between 1992 and 2000. In contrast, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) increased this count to 93 between 2000 and 2008. Notably, the NDC under Professor Mills reduced ministerial appointments to 75, the lowest on record. However, President Akufo-Addo’s NPP raised it to 110, the highest. The significant increase in ministerial appointments under President Akufo-Addo’s administration has sparked concerns about governance efficiency, corruption, and financial implications.
Ghana’s bloated cabinet under President Akufo-Addo has sparked concerns over corruption, poor governance, and crippling financial burdens.
The World Bank’s 2020 report reveals a disturbing link between cabinet size and governance outcomes, where larger cabinets fuel corruption, compromise effective governance, and balloon government spending, ultimately widening deficits.
This toxic combination threatens Ghana’s economic stability, undermining development efforts. Excessive ministerial appointments create fertile ground for corruption, as officials exploit power for personal gain.The consequences include:
*▪︎Corruption:* Abuse of office for private benefits, distorting policy formulation and implementation.
*▪︎Poor Governance:* Inefficient decision-making, favoritism, and incompetence hinder progress.
*▪︎Financial Burden:* Increased government spending exacerbates deficits, crippling economic growth.
The World Bank emphasizes the urgent need for governance reform and anti-corruption measures to mitigate these risks. Effective solutions demand transparency, accountability, and lean governance structures.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has pledged to address these concerns by appointing fewer than 60 ministers and deputies, ensuring accountability, and reducing government expenditure. Mahama’s appointees will also forfeit ex-gratia payments after serving, expected to save taxpayers over GHS 350 million in four years.
Ahmed M. Gedel
NDC Technical Advisor on Biometric and NDC Rep@ IPAC &UNDP-Gha
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