By: Nana Kwasi Roka
IN JUST 120 days, President John Dramani Mahama has reignited hope in millions of Ghanaians by translating campaign promises into swift, strategic action, redefining leadership and reaffirming the NDC’s social democratic vision.
Against a backdrop of economic distress, rising unemployment and institutional fatigue, Mahama’s return to the presidency has already begun to reset Ghana’s governance architecture, inspire accountability and deliver people-centred progress.
Swift Governance, Purposeful Leadership
Mahama’s first stroke of genius was in governance. Within 30 days, his government vetted and secured parliamentary approval for 42 ministers – the fastest in Ghana’s democratic history.
His commitment to building the “Leanest and Most Efficient Government” is already evident, with 56 out of the projected 60 ministers in place. But beyond speed, it is Mahama’s principled approach – a new code of conduct for public officials – that signals a serious departure from business as usual.
People-First Economic Relief
Understanding the economic pain facing Ghanaians, Mahama swiftly scrapped burdensome taxes including the e-levy, the 10% betting tax and the emissions levy. His administration also convened a National Economic Dialogue, drawing from Ghana’s brightest minds to craft homegrown solutions to fiscal challenges.
Most transformative is his legal groundwork for a 24-hour economy – a vision that promises to revolutionize agro-processing, manufacturing, healthcare and logistics, creating jobs while unlocking national productivity on a scale never seen before.
Education and Social Protection: A Government that Cares
Education under Mahama is once again becoming a social leveller. His no-academic-fee policy for first-year public tertiary students is already reducing financial strain on families. The free tertiary education scheme for persons with disabilities and distribution of sanitary pads to female students show a president deeply attuned to social realities – and bold enough to act.
His flagship social safety initiative, the Ghana Medical Care Trust (Mahama Cares) Fund, lays the foundation for expanded healthcare equity and welfare delivery across the country.
Jobs
The Mahama administration isn’t just promising jobs – it is creating ecosystems for employment. With seed funding already released, the “Adwumawura” Programme, National Apprenticeship Scheme and One Million Coders Programme are expected to usher in a new era of youth employment, skills development and digital empowerment.
Fighting Corruption with Action, Not Rhetoric
The launch of Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) is a direct attack on the corruption culture that has plagued public life. From investigating COVID-19 expenditure fraud to reopening cases like the National Cathedral scandal and the murder of journalist Ahmed Suale, Mahama’s message is clear: accountability is non-negotiable.
He has gone further by banning the purchase of state assets by public officials – a precedent-setting move that speaks volumes about the ethical tone of this administration.
Environmental Integrity and Justice Restored
Mahama is tackling environmental degradation head-on. By halting illegal mining in forest reserves and rivers, he is reclaiming Ghana’s ecosystems for future generations. His order to reopen investigations into unsolved electoral violence and criminal cases is a signal that justice and rule of law will no longer be sacrificed at the altar of political convenience.
Conclusion: Ghana’s Great Reset Has Begun
Scoring high on every governance metric – from transparency and economic reform to social welfare and institutional discipline – President Mahama’s first 120 days represent a masterclass in visionary, compassionate and courageous leadership.
As the foundation is laid for a 24-hour economy and a rebirth of national confidence, Ghanaians can look to the future with genuine optimism. The Mahama/NDC government has not just started well – it is shaping up to be the most transformational administration in Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
If the first 120 days are anything to go by, then, the next four years promise a reset, a rise and a rebirth – with Ghana poised to become a haven of hope, opportunity and prosperity.
Source: Nationaltyme.com
