As President John Mahama’s administration marks 60 days in office, the government is working steadily towards fulfilling its ambitious 120-day Social Contract, a set of 26 outlined commitments made to the Ghanaian people. During a post-cabinet press briefing, the Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, reaffirmed the government’s determination to honor all pledges, stating, “120 social contract will be kept.”
With half of the time elapsed, the administration has already made notable strides, including reducing the size of government, launching economic recovery dialogues, implementing a No-Academic-Fee policy for first-year students in public tertiary institutions, and initiating major anti-corruption investigations. However, concerns remain over the actual impact of these policies and whether the government will meet the full spectrum of its commitments within the next 60 days.
A Lean and Efficient Government
One of the most significant pledges in the 120-day Social Contract was to establish the leanest and most efficient government under the Fourth Republic. President Mahama has thus far made only 56 ministerial appointments, including deputies and regional ministers—a sharp reduction compared to previous administrations, which often exceeded 80 ministers.
While this move has been praised for its potential to cut government expenditure, questions have arisen regarding the number of presidential staffers. Although official figures have not yet been published, reports indicate that ten appointments have been made so far. Critics argue that while the number of ministers has been reduced, a bloated staff at the presidency could undermine the essence of a lean government.
Economic Recovery and the 24-Hour Economy Policy
The government also committed to holding a National Economic Dialogue to assess the true state of Ghana’s economy and develop a homegrown fiscal consolidation program. This dialogue which concluded this week was held in alignment with the national budget presentation schedule to be read on March 11, 2025. Many anticipate that the budget will reflect bold policy interventions, especially regarding the government’s proposed 24-Hour Economy Policy, and major policies suggested, especially from the dialogue held.
A Constitutional Review Committee, led by Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, has been tasked with drafting legal amendments to facilitate the transition to a 24-hour economy. The committee’s discussions have focused on three key areas: electing local government leaders, regulating the salaries of top officials, and addressing the dual role of parliamentarians as ministers. President Mahama has pledged full support for these reforms, calling them “critical to sustaining Ghana’s democratic gains.”
No-Academic-Fee Policy for First-Year Students
One of the administration’s most impactful policies so far has been the implementation of the No-Academic-Fee policy for first-year students in public tertiary institutions. The Education Minister has assured that students who already paid admission fees will be refunded. This policy has been widely applauded as a step toward improving access to higher education, though challenges remain in securing sustainable funding.
Fighting Corruption: Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL)
The government has also made good on its promise to investigate cases of corruption, launching the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team, which was a top priority in the 120-day Social Contract. ORAL aims to recover stolen state resources and ensure public sector accountability.
On February 10, 2025, the committee submitted a report to President Mahama detailing 2,417 complaints of suspected corruption. The report, now under review by the Attorney General’s office, includes high-profile cases such as the National Cathedral scandal, illegal money printing, COVID-19 expenditure fraud, and the collapse of indigenous banks. The government has assured the public that culprits will be sanctioned accordingly.
Tourism and Cultural Initiatives: Black Star Experience
In line with the government’s manifesto commitment to making Ghana a premier tourism and cultural hub, renowned musician and entrepreneur Rex Omar has been appointed as the Presidential Staffer for Black Star Experience. This initiative aims to position Ghana as a leading destination for culture, arts, and tourism.
The Road Ahead: 60 More Days to Fulfill Promises
With half of the 120-day deadline remaining, the government still has several major promises to fulfill.
While significant progress has been made, the administration must accelerate efforts to meet the full obligations of its 120-day Social Contract. As Ghana watches closely, the next two months will be crucial in determining whether these promises were mere political rhetoric or genuine steps toward national progress.
120-Day Social Contract Full Document
By Ruth Sekyi – ABC News GH
