Ghana’s economic recovery hinges on the appointment of competent Ministers — GFL

The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) has urged President John Dramani Mahama to appoint skilled and strategic leaders to critical portfolios, particularly the Ministry of Labour, Jobs, and Employment, and the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry.

Describing these ministries as essential to reviving the country’s industrial sector, Mr. Abraham Koomson, GFL Secretary General, emphasized their pivotal role in driving Ghana’s economic growth and resetting the national development agenda. “These two ministries are crucial to the success of Ghana’s development agenda,” he noted.

Mr. Koomson’s comments came in response to President Mahama’s decision to reduce the number of government ministries from 30 to 23, a move aimed at streamlining governance and cutting administrative costs. The reduction was formalized through an Executive Instrument and is seen as a bold step toward improving public service delivery.

While commending the restructuring, Mr. Koomson stressed the need for merit-based appointments. “President Mahama must depart from appointing based on family, friends, and reward for loyalty, which was the yardstick for former President Akufo-Addo. The new government must appoint competent, knowledgeable leaders who are dedicated and able to serve mother Ghana to ensure effective policymaking and implementation,” he stated.

Highlighting the 24-Hour Economy Policy as a transformative initiative, Mr. Koomson expressed confidence in the appointment of Mr. Goosie Tanoh as Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy. “The 24-Hour Economy Policy must succeed, and that’s why I am pleased with the appointment of Goosie Tanoh, whose expertise will be instrumental in guiding this transformative programme,” he said. He called on the government to prioritize the policy, noting its potential to create jobs and address workers’ concerns. “Workers have a vested interest in the success of the 24-Hour Economy Policy. The government must do everything possible to make it a reality.”

Mr. Koomson also highlighted the high expectations of workers and the unemployed, especially those affected by the politically motivated banking sector cleanup. “There is significant pressure on union leaders from workers who are looking for clarity and action on job creation. We represent their voices, and they are waiting to see the government’s plans,” he revealed.

He stressed that the NDC government must act decisively to restore hope and address the hardships faced by Ghanaians. “Workers and those who lost their jobs are watching closely the new government’s actions. The time for action is now. The NDC government must restore hope in the Ghanaian,” he urged.

Governance experts have lauded President Mahama’s decision to streamline the cabinet, viewing it as a commitment to efficient governance and economic development. This restructuring, enacted under the Civil Service Act, 1993 (P.N.D.C.L. 327), sets the stage for the NDC government to deliver on its ambitious goals.