Lawrence Nana Asiamah Hanson, popularly known as Bullgod, a prominent Ghanaian music manager and entertainment pundit, has commented on the recent actions of President John Dramani Mahama regarding the restructuring of government ministries in Ghana.
President John Mahama, who returned to office following a decisive victory in the 2024 general elections, has taken steps to streamline government operations by reducing the number of ministries from 30 to 23. This move was announced through an Executive Instrument signed by Mahama on January 9, 2025, aimed at cutting down government expenditure and enhancing efficiency.
Bullgod’s statement, highlighted by his use of the term ‘experienced,’ acknowledges Mahama’s previous tenure and his approach to governance. The reduction of ministries is seen by some, including Bullgod, as an initiative to eliminate what are considered “wasteful” or less essential ministries. This includes the scrapping or merging of entities like the Ministry of Information, Ministry of Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Works and Housing, Ministry of National Security, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and Ministry of Chieftaincy.
Critics, like Bright Simons from IMANI Africa, have argued that this move is more symbolic, responding to public sentiment rather than directly contributing to significant cost savings. Simons points out that the real cost drivers in government—such as the health and education sectors—require more substantial reforms for actual financial efficiency.
However, supporters of this restructuring see it as part of Mahama’s broader “Resetting Ghana” agenda, focusing on economic restoration, governance reforms, and accountability. This action aligns with Mahama’s campaign promises to maintain a lean government, with only 60 ministers, to ensure a more focused and results-oriented administration.