ACCRA, GHANA: President John Dramani Mahama has announced the immediate cancellation of fuel allowances for all political appointees; a decision intended to curb public expenditure and allocate resources more effectively towards important areas of national development.
This announcement was communicated in an official statement dated Tuesday, July 15, and was signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister for Government Communications.
In a separate initiative implemented in June 2025, President Mahama enforced a ban on Cable TV, such as DStv, along with other satellite TV subscriptions within the Jubilee House, the Presidential Residence and government offices. This move aims to eliminate perceived extravagance and ensure that government spending is focused on essential services rather than luxury entertainment.
Moreover, on February 7, during the swearing-in ceremony of 17 new ministers held at the presidential palace in Accra, President Mahama declared the prohibition of state-funded first-class travel for government officials, including cabinet ministers. This measure seeks to eliminate unnecessary expenditures associated with high-end travel options, reinforcing the government’s dedication to responsible fiscal management.
Additionally, on May 5, 2025, during the official launch of the Code of Conduct for Political Appointees, President Mahama made it unequivocally clear that “No political appointee under this administration is permitted to purchase state assets—whether land, vehicles, shares, or buildings, directly or indirectly.” He emphasized the serious consequences of non-compliance, stating, “If you attempt to do so and are found out, your appointment will be terminated.” This statement shows a zero-tolerance approach to corruption and misuse of public resources.
In recent weeks, the government has introduced a series of measures to curtail unnecessary expenditures. These measures include not only restricting the number of presidential staffers and ministerial appointments but also the elimination of fuel benefits for appointees. Such actions are expected to bolster fiscal discipline, promote good governance, and serve as a clear symbol of accountability, especially during a period when economic prudence is of the utmost importance for the country’s development and stability.
Meanwhile, political pundits in Liberia have hailed the Ghanaian President bold steps to reduce waste and curb public expenditure. These pundits say Liberia can learn from the Ghanaian leadership and also cut spending. They proffer that Liberia must stop the unplanned and often dubious insertions by our lawmakers and the ministries, agencies and departments of government that ballon the budget estimates to unrealistic levels, undermining chances of proper implementation.
