In a recent analysis, Bright Simmons, the Honorary Vice President of IMANI Africa, scrutinizes President John Mahama’s decision to cut the number of government ministries from 30 to 23. He suggests that this move is less about achieving actual government efficiency and more a reaction to public sentiment.
In his article titled “The Stressful Difference between Cutting Ministries & Cutting Costs in Ghana,” Simmons cautions that this restructuring might not lead to significant financial savings as intended.Simmons argues that the rationale behind reducing the number of ministries is rooted in public perception. He asserts that citizens often view a large number of ministers as excessive, which can create an impression of a bloated government. “Cutting down the number of ministries and ministers is thus an exercise in ‘reading the sentiments’ of the public, and in being ‘responsive,’” he explains, pointing out that the decision serves as a symbolic gesture of a government that listens to its people.Further emphasizing the inconsistencies in past government decisions, Simmons reflects on previous administrations’ arbitrary processes for merging or separating ministries, suggesting that these decisions often lack a clear explanation.
He humorously mentions that his own subjective opinions on ministry alignments could vary widely, depending on the areas of focus.Simmons shifts the conversation to the actual cost drivers within the government, asserting that while a reduction in ministries may appear favorable, the substantial cost impacts are predominantly linked to larger agencies and state-owned enterprises. He notes that organizations like the Ghana Educational Service and Ghana Revenue Authority have a more significant role in government spending than the titles of ministers themselves. He questions whether this new cabinet structure will genuinely lead to savings, emphasizing that previous reductions in ministries have not correlated with decreased expenses.
As Simmons puts it, “You might be surprised to see that the expense tends to increase year on year regardless.”Simmons also highlights that trimming smaller ministries will likely have minimal effect on the overall budget, as larger ministries, particularly in sectors like education and health, dominate government expenditures. He asserts that real savings could instead come from instituting reforms in these areas rather than simply abolishing a few ministerial titles. In his conclusion, Simmons underscores the complexity of the challenges facing the government and the limited time frame of four years for substantial changes, remarking, “The issues plenty. And Mr. President has only four years. So, the work dey. Serious! But God too dey.”
Source: Myjoyonline, January 12, 2025.