Former President John Dramani Mahama has called on leaders to embrace accountability and set an example in governance, emphasizing the importance of public trust.
Speaking to the Ghanaian community in Ethiopia on Monday, February 17, Mahama stressed that leadership comes with significant responsibilities and that public officials must be willing to answer to the people.
“Those of us in leadership must lead by example. We must be prepared to be held accountable for taking the public trust. If you accept to serve in the public sector, then you must be prepared to answer to the people because it is the people who took you there—you serve at their pleasure,” he stated.
He highlighted the need for transparency, stating that while his administration remains committed to holding past officials accountable, current leaders must also recognize that they will face the same scrutiny.
“The green letter comes with a lot of responsibility and expectation, and I have said that while we hold those who came before us accountable, we should remember that we are also going to be held accountable,” he added.
Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to governance reforms, noting that while some changes may take time, the foundation for a more transparent leadership structure must be laid.
“We may not be able to complete that process, but at least I am determined that we lay the foundation and put Ghana on the right track,” he said.
He also outlined his priorities, which include constitutional amendments, economic stabilization, and job creation for the youth. He emphasized that these reforms must be implemented swiftly to drive sustainable development.
“So amending the constitution, holding people accountable for the public trust, and making sure that we stabilize the economy and create the opportunity for our young people to work as quickly as possible is the task ahead of us,” he concluded.