By Amoako Kwame
President John Dramani Mahama has charged newly sworn-in ministers Mahama Ayariga and Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings to uphold accountability, transparency and integrity as they assume their respective portfolios.
He urged the two ministers to remain accessible to Ghanaians, listen to their concerns and ensure that decisions taken in office are guided by legality, fairness and the public interest.
The two ministers were sworn into office on Saturday, August 29, following their approval by Parliament on Friday, August 28.
Mahama Ayariga has been assigned to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, while Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings takes charge of the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, President Mahama reminded the ministers that their appointments came with significant expectations from the Ghanaian people.
He said Ghanaians expected public officials not only to occupy public offices but also to deliver measurable results while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and accountability.
“Let me remind you that the Ghanaian people expect results, they expect integrity, accessibility and accountability. They expect public officials to listen to them and act with urgency, so be firm where firmness is required. Be fair where fairness is required but always remember to remain humble.”
The President further urged the ministers to rely on professional advice, respect the institutions under their leadership and ensure that public resources are managed prudently.
“Listen to professional advice, respect the institutions under your leadership and ensure that public resources are managed prudently. Let every decision you take withstand the test of legality, fairness and public interest,” he added.
President Mahama’s charge comes as the two ministers begin their assignments in key sectors of government, including local governance, chieftaincy and religious affairs, as well as environmental protection, science and technology.
