Mr President, the Warning Signs Are There

Dear President John Dramani Mahama,

The warning signs are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. If care is not taken, your administration risks following a path similar to that of your predecessor, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Such an outcome would be unfortunate not only for your legacy but also for Ghana's democratic progress.

A growing concern among many citizens is the perception that some of your appointees continue to underperform or act without accountability, yet receive public praise and protection from the highest office. This trend, if left unchecked, could erode public confidence in your government.

I had resolved not to comment further on the performance of the Greater Accra Regional Minister after hearing her described as the "Demolition Minister." Beyond the widely publicized demolition exercise at Sakumono, many residents are still grappling with perennial flooding across Accra. If the current state of affairs is considered satisfactory, then that judgment rests with your administration.

Much has been said about citizens building on waterways and indiscriminate waste disposal. While these factors contribute to the problem, many of the people suffering the consequences are law-abiding residents who have developed their properties properly and in accordance with regulations.

Should it not be the responsibility of government officials and relevant agencies to identify and remove structures obstructing waterways? If those entrusted with that responsibility have failed to act, should there not be consequences? Accountability is a cornerstone of effective governance.

While many continue to debate the existence of a culture of silence in Ghana, some international news organizations are already highlighting it as a growing concern.

The situation is deeply troubling. Ghana needs decisive leadership, including a comprehensive reshuffle of ministers, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), and security heads whose inactivity has contributed to what many perceive as a growing culture of silence and complacency within government.

What makes the situation even more unfortunate is that the commendable work being done by some appointees risks being overshadowed. Individuals such as Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene and Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa have earned public recognition for their efforts. However, the achievements of a few can easily be undermined by the shortcomings of others.

President, the choice ultimately rests with you. You can steer your administration toward the transformative leadership many Ghanaians hoped for when they entrusted you with a second term, or you can allow avoidable failures to define your legacy.

History will judge not only the promises made but also the actions taken when the warning signs were clear.

Ebenezer Madugu

ebenezermadugu@gmail.com