Addressing a place brimming with high-ranking government officials and newly appointed executives at the Aqua Safari Resort in Ada, the President of Ghana issued a clear and direct mandate for his second term in office: deliver results.
Speaking at the opening session of the Executive Leadership Programme, the President, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, left no room for ambiguity, outlining his expectations and demanding accountability from his team.
The President emphasised the significance of his term, declaring, “This is my legacy term, and I intend to make it count.” This powerful statement underscored the weight of the task ahead and signaled a renewed focus on impactful governance and lasting achievements. He made it clear that this was not merely a continuation of the status quo, but a concentrated effort to solidify his leadership and leave a positive mark on the nation’s history.
His remarks were not just about grand visions, however. The President grounded his expectations in the day-to-day realities of governing, reminding his appointees of their fundamental duty. “You were not appointed to occupy space but to solve problems,” he stated emphatically.
This call to action resonated with the underlying purpose of public service, highlighting the need for proactive leadership and innovative solutions to the challenges facing the nation. He urged them to move beyond simply maintaining existing systems and instead focus on identifying and resolving the persistent issues hindering progress.
Furthermore, the President stressed the ethical underpinnings of effective governance. He passionately urged his appointees to embrace the virtues of integrity and dedication. “There is a need for you, as appointees, to be honest, dedicated, and loyal to Ghanaians in all your activities,” he charged.
This plea for ethical conduct underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of the Ghanaian people. He emphasised that their actions should always be guided by the best interests of the nation, rejecting any form of corruption or self-serving behaviour.
The President didn’t shy away from emphasising the individual responsibility expected of each member of his administration. “Every member must take responsibility, make no excuses, and show results,” he insisted. This clear articulation of expectations highlighted the need for proactivity and accountability at all levels. He dismantled the possibility of shifting blame or relying on excuses, demanding that each appointee take ownership of their roles and demonstrate tangible progress in their respective areas.
The Executive Leadership Programme serves as a crucial platform to equip the President’s team with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet these ambitious goals. The programme is designed to foster collaboration, encourage innovative thinking, and reinforce a commitment to ethical leadership. By providing a dedicated space for reflection and strategic planning, the programme aims to empower appointees to effectively address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The President’s speech sends a powerful message, not only to his appointees but also to the citizens of Ghana. It demonstrates a commitment to decisive leadership, responsible governance, and tangible results. The success of this “legacy term” will depend on the dedication and commitment of each member of the government, working together to build a brighter future for Ghana. As the President’s second term unfolds, the nation will be watching closely to see if his appointees can rise to the challenge and truly “make it count.”
Anthony Obeng Afrane
