‘There are many ways to serve’ – Mahama tells angry NDC supporters
President John Dramani Mahama has called on members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and other well-meaning Ghanaians to explore diverse avenues to contribute to national development, emphasizing that leadership extends beyond ministerial appointments.
The president made these remarks during the swearing-in ceremony of his second batch of ministers at the Jubilee House.
His statement comes amid reports of discontent within the NDC over the omission of certain individuals from ministerial appointments.
In Bole-Bamboi, some youth reportedly burned car tyres at the residence of President Mahama’s late father, expressing frustration over the omission of their Member of Parliament from the ministerial list.
Similarly, NDC supporters in the Effutu constituency have voiced dissatisfaction with the party’s inability to secure an appointment for James Kofi Annan, the 2024 Parliamentary Candidate for the area.
Addressing these concerns, President Mahama noted the importance of maintaining a lean government in light of current economic realities.
“Putting together such a lean government will mean that very qualified and well-meaning people both within the NDC and outside the party will not see their dream of securing a position to serve their dream in a ministerial capacity materialised at this moment. The exigencies of the time dictate that we change course and gravitate towards an era where emphasis is placed on efficiency and prudent management of our resources.
“So, to the many highly qualified members of the NDC who fought hard to ensure our return into office and will relish an opportunity to put their talents and skills at the disposal of the country, know that there are many other ways to make your presence and expertise beneficial to this nation.
“There remains quite a number of positions outside ministerial roles and in due course, you may be called to serve in these capacities. We also seek to build a nation where the best and the best serve their nation even if they are not overly partisan,” he stated.
The ministers who were sworn into office are:
• Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts
• George Opare Addo, Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment
• Emelia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development
• Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs
• Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Minister for Trade, Industry, and Agribusiness
• Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection
Source: channel1news