President Mahama Engages Civil Society on Governance Advisory Council Formation

 President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening good governance and accountability in Ghana through the formation of a Governance Advisory Council. This major initiative, first announced during his 2024 election campaign is now moving into its consultation phase following a high-level meeting with representatives of various Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) at the Presidency.

The meeting, held on May 26, brought together thought leaders from civil society, religious and traditional institutions, academia, and labour unions to deliberate on the establishment and operational framework of the Council.

In his address, President Mahama emphasised the purpose of the Council describing it as a key pillar in enhancing transparency, human rights, and anti-corruption efforts in Ghana.

This Council is a commitment to the Ghanaian people a promise to foster a more transparent and accountable government,” he said. The President believes the Council will provide constructive oversight, help strengthen institutions, and ensure that the voices of ordinary citizens are reflected in governance.

According to a press statement issued after the meeting, President Mahama noted that the Council will bring together the collective expertise and wisdom of Ghanaians from diverse backgrounds to build a stronger democratic culture.

“By bringing together civil society, religious leaders, traditional authorities, academia, labour, and everyday citizens, we can create a powerful mechanism for ensuring our governance truly reflects the values and aspirations of our nation,” the statement read.

One of the core functions of the Governance Advisory Council will be the publication of an annual report assessing the state of governance, human rights, media freedoms and anti-corruption efforts in Ghana. The President stressed that the report will not be a symbolic document but a tool for real policy reform.

“This annual report will not be just another document gathering dust on a shelf,” President Mahama had said during his 2024 campaign. “It will be a living, breathing instrument for change holding us accountable and pushing us to improve.

The report will be made publicly accessible and is expected to guide government actions by highlighting both achievements and areas requiring urgent attention.

To bring the vision of the Council to fruition the President has appointed Dr Valerie Sawyerr, Senior Presidential Advisor for Governmental Affairs, to lead the effort. Dr Sawyerr will coordinate with stakeholders and oversee the development of the Council’s legal and operational framework.

The move to establish the Governance Advisory Council marks a significant step in the President’s broader agenda to reform governance, uphold democratic values, and promote public sector integrity.

Civil society leaders have welcomed the initiative describing it as a timely and much-needed step toward ensuring better government accountability. As consultations continue, many are hopeful that the Council will become a meaningful platform for civic engagement and oversight in Ghana’s democratic journey.

If successfully implemented the Governance Advisory Council could become a model for participatory governance in the region, ensuring that the government remains responsive to the people it serves.