KEY POINTS
- Mahama warns against last-minute recruitments and contract signings.
- Concerns raised over potential liabilities for the incoming administration.
- Joint transition team tasked with ensuring a smooth power transfer.
President-elect John Mahama has raised alarms over reports of last-minute mass recruitments and contract signings by the outgoing government. He warned that these actions could impose significant liabilities on the incoming administration.
Speaking during a meeting of the transitional team, Mahama urged the outgoing government to exercise restraint and avoid actions that might bind the next administration to unnecessary financial obligations.
“There are also reports of last-minute mass recruitments into other agencies, which will be a liability to the new government. That’s something we’ve asked the transitional team to address,” Mahama said.
According to Mahama, there are indications that certain parastatals are attempting to lock in contracts before the new government assumes office. This move, he cautioned, could have lasting implications on the incoming government’s ability to prioritize its agenda.
“There are a few signals about contracts some parastatals are trying to sign off at the last minute, committing the new government before it assumes office. It’s something we’ve raised a signal about, and I hope the joint transitional team addresses it,” he added.
Mahama’s remarks highlight the need for greater transparency and cooperation between the outgoing and incoming administrations as Ghana prepares for a formal handover of power.
Transparency in Ghana’s transition process is crucial
As Ghana prepares for a transfer of power, a joint transition team has been formed to ensure a smooth handover of government affairs. The process is guided by constitutional protocols designed to promote continuity in governance.
The administrator overseeing the transition has assured that handover notes are ready for review by the incoming administration. These notes are intended to provide a clear overview of key government policies, pending contracts, and other obligations that the incoming government will inherit.
Mahama emphasized the need for cooperation between both administrations to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the process. “The integrity of the transition process depends on open communication and mutual respect,” he said.
According to Graphic Online, the role of the joint transition team is to facilitate discussions, resolve potential conflicts, and ensure that the incoming administration is well-prepared to assume office. This is critical to prevent disruptions in governance and to avoid burdening the new government with unplanned liabilities.
Incoming government urged to remain vigilant
While Mahama’s comments were primarily directed at the outgoing administration, he also called on members of the incoming government to remain alert and monitor the activities of outgoing officials. The president-elect stressed that transparency in the transition process would be crucial to achieving a smooth handover.
Mahama’s remarks reflect a broader concern among Ghanaians about the potential for last-minute financial commitments that could impact the incoming government’s budget and development priorities. His emphasis on accountability and cooperation echoes similar calls from civil society organizations and political commentators.
The incoming government’s ability to deliver on its campaign promises may be shaped by the commitments made during this transition period. Mahama assured Ghanaians that his administration would prioritize efficiency and good governance from day one.
The Ghanaian public is watching closely, and Mahama’s cautionary stance signals that he is prepared to take a firm approach to address any irregularities that arise during the transition.
