The President is the government, everyone else is just an advisor including the vice president – Kufuor

Accra, Ghana - Nov 14, 2024 - Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has sparked a national conversation about the role of the presidency in Ghana's governance, emphasizing that the President holds ultimate executive authority.

In an interview on Asempa FM's Ekosii Sen, Kufuor stressed that the President is the government, while others, including the Vice President, serve in advisory capacities.

Kufuor's comments come amidst Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia's campaign promises to drive Ghana's development with the mandate of the presidency. Bawumia has expressed frustration with his limited ability to effect change as Vice President, citing his role as merely advisory.

However, Kufuor countered that true power lies with the President, and only by securing that position can one implement substantial policies and reforms.

The Structure of Ghana's Executive Presidency

Ghana's political system is designed as a presidential representative democratic republic, where the President serves as both head of state and head of government. The President appoints the Vice President and more than half of the presidentially appointed ministers of state must be appointed from among members of Parliament.

Kufuor's Response to Critics

Kufuor also addressed critics who blame Bawumia for Ghana's current economic difficulties. He pointed out that the Vice President's role has always been advisory, offering counsel to the President. This underscores the notion that the President holds ultimate authority in Ghana's governance.

In Kufuor's words, "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." 

Source: Florence Kyei / Lead News Online