President John Dramani Mahama has issued a strong warning to his ministers, declaring that any involvement in scandal or wrongdoing will lead to swift and severe consequences, with no protection from the presidency or the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The warning was confirmed by the NDC’s General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, saying that the president’s message to cabinet ministers was clear and non-negotiable.
“I can confirm that 100 percent,” Mr Kwetey said. “The president has done that, and the party has also firmly stood behind him. Even in cabinet, we are fully behind him in enforcing discipline.”
President Mahama has repeatedly spoken about restoring discipline, accountability, and integrity in public office, amid public concerns over corruption and governance. According to Mr Kwetey, the warning forms part of a broader effort to signal zero tolerance for misconduct in government.
He stressed that ministers have been told plainly that the party will not intervene to shield anyone who brings scandal into government.
“If you are a member of government and the leader tells you clearly that wrongdoing will not be tolerated, and you see the party leadership backing him, then you know you are on your own if you do wrong,” he said.
Mr Kwetey argued that this firm stance explains the relative absence of major scandals within the government so far.
“That’s why you can go through a whole year and hardly talk about scandals. Everyone knows that if you cross the line, the party is not shielding you and the presidency is not shielding you,” he added.
He explained that “dealt with” means facing the full force of the law, without political interference, including prosecution and possible imprisonment.
“If what you do is wrong, you must face due process. If you have to be taken to court, you’ll be taken to court. If you have to be jailed, you’ll be jailed. Nobody is shielding you,” he stated.
Mr Kwetey said the position reflects a deliberate effort to break with a culture in which political parties protect their own at the expense of the national interest.
“The idea that because the NDC is in power it must shield itself and cover wrongdoing must be a thing of the past. The country’s interest must come first,” he said.
He added that cabinet ministers clearly understand the seriousness of the president’s warning, noting that President Mahama even reinforced the message with humor.
“The president jokes that once you get into trouble, don’t even bother calling, because the call will not be picked. What must be done will be done,” Mr Kwetey said.
Story by Freedom Etsey Lavoe/ahotoronline.com