- Dr. Yamson calls on President Mahama to lead by action in the country's reset agenda
- He emphasizes fiscal discipline as crucial for economic stability
- Dr. Yamson stresses the need for transparency and sacrifice from leaders
Former Unilever Ghana boss, Dr. Ishmael Yamson, has urged President John Mahama to set an example, emphasizing that any commitment to resetting Ghana must be evident at the highest levels of leadership.
In an interview on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition on Thursday, March 6, Dr. Yamson, who is also the Board Chair of MTN Ghana, stated that meaningful change will only occur if leaders practice what they preach.
“The president has made a significant move by reducing the number of ministers and deputy ministers from over 100 to 60. This is a major step, showing that it can be done,” he remarked.
Dr. Yamson highlighted that this decision demonstrates a commitment to fiscal discipline, but he believes that more needs to be done.
He stressed that fiscal discipline should be the Finance Minister’s priority, as it forms the basis for economic stability. “Once fiscal discipline is established, monetary policies will lead to faster macroeconomic stability. I am confident that Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson is dedicated to this goal. He knows, as I do, that the pressure will never lessen,” he added.
While recognizing that the government has only four years to make a significant impact, Dr. Yamson argued that even if all goals cannot be achieved in that time, it is important to visibly lay the groundwork for future progress.
“Even if they can’t accomplish everything, they need to show that they’re laying a solid foundation and are on the right path. It’s impossible to build all the hospitals in Ghana in four years, but progress should be visible,” he said.
Transparency and honesty in governance are also key factors, according to Dr. Yamson. “I’ve learned throughout my career that if you’re truthful with your people, they’ll follow you because they trust you. It’s essential to be honest – if things are good, say they’re good; if they’re tough, be upfront about it,” he advised.
However, he cautioned that leadership must lead by example and show sacrifice before asking citizens to do the same. “You can’t ask people to tighten their belts if you haven’t tightened yours first,” he noted.
Dr. Yamson believes that leadership by example is crucial for the success of the government’s reset agenda. “Living and leading by example will be critical for this government, especially for the President, Vice President, and Cabinet Ministers. When you say you’re going to reset, it means you need to stop and change things, and people will be watching,” he warned.
In his view, Ghana is at a crucial juncture where words alone are insufficient. The leadership must inspire confidence through action and demonstrate a true commitment to change.
Dr. Yamson’s message is clear: For Ghana to reset and move forward, the transformation must start at the top.
