An Open Letter to President John Dramani Mahama: Embrace Governance Reform to Cut Costs

Dear President John Dramani Mahama,
I write as a concerned citizen to propose a bold reform for your second-term government: eliminating regional ministers to enhance governance efficiency and reduce government expenditure in these challenging economic times.

The Local Governance Act 2016 (Act 936) provides the framework for decentralization, empowering Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to lead development initiatives within their jurisdictions. Section 12 of the Act clearly outlines the authority of MMDCEs to manage local resources and projects. Regional ministers, whose roles often overlap with those of MMDCEs, create redundant bureaucracy, delaying project implementation. For instance, funds for local infrastructure projects must pass through regional offices, hindering timely execution.

Moreover, regional ministers have historically been more politically inclined than development-focused. During election years, their offices are frequently utilized to consolidate party influence rather than addressing critical needs like healthcare, education, and youth unemployment. Empowering MMDAs directly aligns with the principles of Act 936, ensuring that governance is localized, responsive, and streamlined.

By removing this layer of governance, you can significantly reduce the number of ministers, cutting down on government expenditure. The savings could be redirected to critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture, fostering sustainable growth and alleviating economic pressures.

Your Excellency, this reform is a unique opportunity to lead a fiscally responsible government while strengthening decentralization and ensuring grassroots development. Ghana needs bold leadership, and you can deliver it. Thank you, Sir!

Sincerely,
Abdul Rafiiu Alhassan
[email protected]