“The President is the government, everyone else is just an advisor.” – Kufuor defends Bawumia
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has highlighted the pivotal role of the presidency in Ghana’s governance, stating that “the President is the government, everyone else is just an advisor.”
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen program, Mr. Kufuor elaborated on the structure of Ghana’s executive presidency and the significant responsibilities that come with the role. His remarks follow recent statements by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Ghana’s current Vice President and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, who urged Ghanaians to vote for him in the upcoming elections.
Dr. Bawumia explained that his position as Vice President limited his ability to enact change, emphasizing that, as President, he would possess the authority to implement policies that could transform the country.
Mr. Kufuor acknowledged Dr. Bawumia’s intentions but reinforced the fact that Ghana’s political system grants ultimate executive authority to the President. He emphasized that the Vice President, like other government officials, primarily serves in an advisory capacity.
“I have been President before; in Ghana, the government is the President. Ours is an executive presidency. All other persons in government are only advisors, including the Vice President,” Mr. Kufuor stated.
Addressing criticisms that blame Dr. Bawumia for Ghana’s economic challenges, Mr. Kufuor pointed out that the Vice President’s role does not grant him direct power to implement policies. He asserted that holding the presidency is the only way one can drive substantial reforms and policies to improve the nation’s situation.
Kufuor’s remarks underline the importance of the presidential mandate in achieving meaningful governance and development in Ghana.
