Undoubtedly, one of the key decisions that can make and unmake the governance of a nation is the competence or expertise of those who spearhead the various ministerial portfolios and government agencies/institutions.

To this end, Plato, one of the greatest ancient philosophers argued in his book the Republic that governance needs leaders of exceptional competence and wisdom in an attempt to ensure the prosperity of societies.

Again, Aristotle, another great ancient philosopher is reported to have said that the most important aspect of government is to ensure that the right people are in positions of authority.

In light of the ministerial nominations by President John Mahama, the burning question that surfaces is are the nominees capable of performing their roles creditably to delivery good governance?

One of the principal campaign promises made by President Mahama was to streamline governance by reducing unnecessary expenditure and by cutting down the number of ministers in his administration.

This move has been broadly welcomed as the majority of Ghanaians are eager to see a lean government that is characterized by efficiency and high productivity in addressing the nation’s pressing issues.

On learn government, the use of only 23 ministries as the public was informed last week is a step in the right direction and needs some commendation.

However, the president’s choice of the first batch of ministerial nominations so far calls for discussions regarding the inclusion of ministers who previously held offices during his first term, many of whom were arguably criticized for their underperformance.

For instance, Dr. Ato Forson who has been nominated to the Ministry of Finance served as a Deputy Finance Minister and cannot be exempted from the many financial decisions that adversely affected the nation from 2013 to 2017 especially the IMF Bailout Programme in 2015 which came with austerity measures such as a freeze on employment.

Ghanaians still remember the challenges that characterized President Mahama’s first administration. His government faced criticisms over economic mismanagement, corruption allegations and a perceived lack of accountability.

Prolonged power outages, popularly known as dumsor crippled businesses and eroded public confidence. It was against this backdrop that Mahama lost his bid for re-election in 2016, as Ghanaians clamoured for a fresh direction just as they did in the 2024 election.

As President Mahama embarks on his second term, there is a palpable sense of déjà vu among citizens.

Whilst some appointees yet to be named may have proven track records and command the highest of respects, the first batch of appointments clearly includes individuals whose previous tenures were characterized by unpopular leadership.

For example, the reappointment of John Abdulai Jinapor has drawn considerable scrutiny.

Although he possesses expertise in energy and could lead the Energy Ministry, his tenure as Deputy Minister of Energy during the dumsor era was marked by intermittent power outages and that remains a sore point for many Ghanaians.

The inclusion of individuals whose leadership during critical periods, such as the energy crisis or economic challenges, failed to deliver meaningful solutions raises valid concerns. These reappointments call into question the president’s commitment to change and his ability to prioritize merit over political loyalty.

I believe that the public opinion now reflects both hope and disappointments. Many Ghanaians hold the view that President Mahama should introduce new faces with fresh ideas and innovative approaches to governance.

With Ghana’s youth increasingly demanding accountability and inclusion, the recycling of old, underperforming officials feels like a missed chance to rejuvenate the country’s leadership.

The risk of alienating citizens who voted for Mahama based on his promise of change cannot be overstated and therefore, as he is yet to release the majority of ministerial nominations and also appoint Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) to State agencies, fresh faces; individuals who did not serve in his first government will help.

The reappointment of those old faces may not augur well for Ghana because the outcome of the 2016 elections is enough testament that Ghanaians were not happy with his government at that time.

The stakes are particularly high as Ghana grapples with mounting challenges. Economic recovery from the global downturn, rising youth unemployment and improving social infrastructure are critical areas that demand competent and visionary leadership. President Mahama’s appointments must reflect the urgency and seriousness of these challenges. Citizens are not only expecting promises but tangible, measurable progress in their lives.

As President Mahama settles into his new term, he would do well to reflect on the criticisms that led to his loss in 2016.

He must recognize that Ghanaians are watching closely, eager for evidence that he has learned from past mistakes.

To succeed, he must focus on appointing individuals who combine competence, integrity, and a results-oriented mindset. This will not only strengthen his government but also restore faith in his leadership. There is still time for Mahama to adjust.

He could consider appointing technocrats and experts to critical ministries. Expanding opportunities for younger, qualified Ghanaians to contribute to governance could also demonstrate his commitment to inclusive and forward-thinking leadership.

Above all, he must prioritize delivering on his promises rather than settling for the status quo or appointing his cronies.
Ghana’s citizens have given President Mahama a rare second chance.

Whether he uses this opportunity to redefine his legacy or repeats the missteps of the past will ultimately determine how history remembers his presidency.

By choosing competence and innovation over loyalty and nostalgia, he has the chance to truly make Ghana better. The ball is in his court.

Scott Edward Agyemang, Business Development Expert and Political Analyst