Mahama to Announce Sweeping Cuts to Public Officials’ Perks
President rolls out new austerity measures to promote modest governance and curb excess.
- Mahama to cut public officials’ perks as part of a new cost-saving initiative
- No more ex gratia payments for executive appointees under his administration
- DStv subscriptions banned in government offices to curb non-essential spending
President John Mahama is set to unveil sweeping new measures aimed at drastically curbing the perks and privileges previously enjoyed by public officials.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce public expenditure and promote a culture of modesty and fiscal responsibility within government.
Speaking in an interview, government spokesperson Felix Ofosu Kwakye revealed that the President is taking decisive steps to lead by example, with major cuts already implemented at the top levels of leadership.
“In the coming days, President Mahama will roll out strict limitations on benefits that were common under the previous administration,” he stated.
He emphasized that Mahama’s administration is already setting a precedent for lean governance. “This is the smallest government in the history of the Fourth Republic. The President promised 60 ministers but is operating with just 56. As for presidential staffers, their numbers have been halved compared to what we inherited—336 under the previous regime.”
Among the cost-saving measures is a controversial new fuel levy, which Mr. Ofosu Kwakye assured will be transparently managed. He also highlighted Mahama’s determination to do away with lavish governance practices.
Further reinforcing this commitment, the President has decided that executive appointees will no longer be eligible for ex gratia payments—a significant move towards reform.
In a symbolic yet impactful decision, Mahama has also banned DStv and other satellite television subscriptions at the Jubilee House, with plans to extend this directive to all government institutions.
“No office here subscribes to DStv or similar services. While it may seem minor, the cumulative savings are substantial,” said Ofosu Kwakye.
These measures, he added, underscore President Mahama’s intention to foster a culture of modesty and responsible spending throughout the public sector.
