Mahama vows to reduce number of Ministers, ban appointees from state scholarships

The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has made strong commitments to combat corruption and reform the government scholarship program if he is elected in the 2024 general elections.

Speaking at the launch of the NDC’s manifesto in Winneba, Central Region, Mahama outlined his plans to ensure transparency and fairness in governance.

Mahama emphasized that neither he nor his family members, including his wife and children, will be allowed to purchase state assets under his administration. This prohibition will extend to other politically exposed individuals, including political appointees and public officials, as part of a broader effort to wage a "ruthless war against corruption." He stated, "We will prohibit politically exposed persons, political appointees, and public officials from purchasing state assets. So, it’s not only me who cannot buy state assets, my wife and children cannot buy state assets because they are political persons."

In addition to his anti-corruption stance, Mahama pledged to overhaul the government scholarship program, which he described as being plagued by "kalabule" (deceit). He criticized the current system for allowing state officials, who can afford to sponsor their wards, to take advantage of scholarships meant for underprivileged individuals. Under his leadership, Mahama vowed that no government official or political appointee would be eligible to apply for these scholarships. "Children underprivileged, those who cannot afford it, are the ones who must get the scholarship," he declared.

Mahama also promised to re-open investigations into major unresolved cases, including the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election violence, the 2020 election killings, and the murder of investigative journalist Ahmed Suale, signaling his commitment to justice and accountability.

These promises highlight Mahama's focus on restoring integrity and equity in governance, as he seeks to regain the presidency in the upcoming election.