President-elect John Dramani Mahama has expressed concerns about last-minute recruitments and significant payments of contract sums by the outgoing administration.
Speaking in Accra on Friday, President-elect Mahama revealed that he had instructed his side of the Presidential Transition Team to address these issues, which he described as potential liabilities for his incoming government.
Addressing Madam Harriet Thompson, the British High Commissioner to Ghana, who had called on him to extend congratulations for his victory in the December 7 polls, President-elect Mahama highlighted irregularities observed during the transition process.
He noted that some government agencies appeared to be rushing to sign off contracts at the eleventh hour, effectively binding the new administration to pre-existing commitments.
“These last-minute decisions, including mass recruitments and contract signings, could create significant liabilities for the incoming government,” President-elect Mahama said.
He urged the Joint Presidential Transition Team to thoroughly examine these issues and take appropriate action to safeguard the interests of the incoming administration.
Plans for economic recovery
Turning to his administration’s priorities, President-elect Mahama outlined a comprehensive plan aimed at restoring economic stability and spurring growth.
High on his agenda is addressing challenges in the energy sector, which he described as critical to the country’s overall economic recovery efforts.
“If we do not do something about the energy sector, it could crash everything that we’re doing,” he stated. He emphasized the need for technical assistance and resource mobilization to restructure and sustain the energy value chain.
Additionally, President-elect Mahama committed to fostering multilateral and bilateral partnerships to restore economic stability and create more job opportunities for Ghana’s youth.
Strengthening ties with UK
President-elect Mahama expressed optimism about deepening Ghana’s historic ties with the United Kingdom.
He highlighted the UK’s role as a key partner in Ghana’s development and welcomed discussions on strengthening economic cooperation.
Madam Harriet Thompson, the British High Commissioner, lauded President-elect Mahama’s conciliatory response to his victory and commended outgoing Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his gracious concession.
She reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting the Mahama administration during its tenure, emphasizing the importance of the longstanding relationship between the two nations.
Focus on moving forward
As the transition process continues, President-elect Mahama assured Ghanaians of his administration’s focus on delivering economic growth, stabilizing key sectors, and fostering international cooperation.
He thanked the UK for its support during the 2024 general elections and reiterated his commitment to strengthening partnerships that benefit Ghana’s development trajectory.
