Mahama Cracks Down on Rogue Ministers: No Policy Announcements Without Cabinet Approval
The Government of Ghana, under President John Dramani Mahama, has issued a stern directive prohibiting Ministers of State from announcing major policies or programs without prior Cabinet approval, aiming to curb a “growing practice” of unauthorized pronouncements.
The October 27 circular, signed by Secretary to Cabinet Professor Kwaku Danso-Boafo, invokes constitutional protocols and the principle of collective responsibility, warning that unapproved initiatives “shall not be deemed to represent official Government policy.”
The directive, circulated to all ministries, mandates that proposed policies, programs, or legislative initiatives be submitted through Chief Directors to the Cabinet Secretariat for formal deliberation.
“This ensures policy coherence and upholds the unified position of the Administration,” Danso-Boafo stated, addressing incidents where ministers, including those in health and education, announced plans—like hospital upgrades or curriculum changes—later contradicted or unfunded due to lack of Cabinet consensus.
This move, rooted in Article 76 of the 1992 Constitution, responds to public and parliamentary criticism of disjointed governance, notably after a 2024 Auditor-General report flagged GH¢1.2 billion in unapproved expenditures.
Political analyst Dr. Kwame Asiedu noted, “It’s a signal Mahama wants tighter control post-NPP’s fiscal lapses,” referencing the NDC’s 2025 agenda to streamline spending amid a GH¢75.7 billion Q4 borrowing plan.
Non-compliance could trigger sanctions, including ministerial reshuffles, as Mahama’s administration eyes a cohesive 2026 budget rollout on November 13.
