Mahama signals cabinet reshuffle as ministers face performance review

President John Dramani Mahama has signalled the possibility of a Cabinet and administrative reshuffle as his government prepares to undertake a comprehensive review of the performance of ministers and chief executives of state institutions.

A statement issued by the Presidency on Monday and signed by the Secretary to the President, Callistus Mahama, said the assessment would examine the performance of ministers and heads of state agencies, with the findings informing decisions on whether officials are retained, reassigned or removed from office.

"The findings of this review shall constitute a key basis for decisions relating to retention in office, reassignment of responsibilities, and any future Cabinet or executive restructuring," the statement said.

The announcement suggests that changes within government could be made in the coming weeks as the administration evaluates the effectiveness of its key appointees.

The Presidency also cautioned public officials against participating in private award schemes which it said often lack transparent and credible criteria for measuring performance.

According to the statement, some organisations confer titles such as "best-performing", "most outstanding" and "most influential" on public officials without clear methodologies or verifiable standards.

The Presidency warned that the growing involvement of ministers, chief executives and other political appointees in such award ceremonies could undermine public confidence in government performance assessments and expose the administration to criticism.

"The increasing trend of Ministers of State, Chief Executive Officers of State Institutions, and other public officials participating in and accepting awards from various private organisations has the potential to undermine the integrity of public service, create misconceptions regarding government performance assessment, and expose the

Government to unnecessary public criticism and embarrassment," the statement said.

It added that public office is a responsibility measured by service delivery and results rather than recognition from privately organised award schemes.

President Mahama has therefore directed all ministers, chief executives of state institutions and political appointees to refrain from participating in, endorsing, sponsoring or accepting such awards unless they receive prior authorisation from the Office of the President.

The Presidency reiterated that the government's assessment of performance would be based on measurable outcomes, implementation of policy objectives, prudent management of public resources and the quality of services delivered to Ghanaians.

Public officials, it said, should focus on executing their mandates and delivering results rather than seeking external recognition.

The review of ministers and chief executives is expected to be conducted in due course, with its outcome likely to shape any future Cabinet or executive restructuring by the President.