Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has reminded President Mahama that, as outlined in the 1992 Constitution, his role as a journalist is to hold the government accountable to the people of Ghana, which he intends to do constructively.
He further expressed concern over threats from some members of the President’s party, who have vowed to suppress dissenting voices, citing perceived silence from the media and civil society during Akufo-Addo’s tenure.
In an open letter to the President highlighting potential “goldmines” and “landmines” of his presidency, Awuni asserted that such sentiments are becoming increasingly common, particularly on social media.
“Dear President John Dramani Mahama, Accept my congratulations on your emphatic victory in the 2024 presidential election and your rebound as president of our republic. It is early days yet, and experience has taught me to tame my excitement over the positive signs of your administration.
“I must, however, admit that the air of our national discourse since you took over two weeks ago appears to have been purified from the toxicity of oppression, nepotism, and impunity with which our nation was polluted in the longest eight years of the Fourth Republic”.
Manasseh Azure Awuni
Manasseh Awuni further highlighted that during the past eight years, he consistently compared the Akufo-Addo government with Mahama’s administration on issues of media freedom and free speech.
He noted that while Mahama’s leadership fostered tolerance for dissent, under Akufo-Addo, speaking out often required courage.
He observed that some vocal groups and individuals who once championed accountability during Mahama’s tenure became silent under Akufo-Addo.
However, key civil society organizations (CSOs) continued their advocacy, often at personal risk.
These groups played vital roles in exposing corruption, challenging the Agyapa and Aker Energy deals, and opposing Daniel Domelevo’s removal as Auditor-General.
According to Awuni, they also led legal actions, including those against the Ameri deal and the SML contract promoted by Ken Ofori-Atta. “Like them, I cannot be denied my right to speak in your administration”.
The astute journalist also disclosed facing severe challenges under the Akufo-Addo regime, including job resignation, exile, armed police protection, and mental health struggles.
Awuni noted that despite these hardships, he remained active and productive, rejecting claims of silence.
He emphasized that his work and activism during this period demonstrate his resilience under the most oppressive media environment of the Fourth Republic. “I did not shut up and cannot be said to have suddenly found my voice when you [President Mahama returned”.
Justice, Reforms Urged in Mahama’s Presidency
Highlighting potential strengths in Mahama’s presidency, the journalist emphasized the need for justice and accountability through initiatives like Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL).
He urged the President to streamline its legal framework and empower the Attorney General to prosecute wrongdoers.
Accordingly, Awuni dismissed criticism of ORAL as witch-hunting, stating that targeting corrupt individuals is justified.
The journalist also stressed the importance of institutional reforms, noting that Ghana’s current economic constraints demand a focus beyond infrastructure.
He praised the President’s constitutional review efforts as a transformative step and encouraged leveraging the parliamentary majority to reset and reform Ghana’s governance.
“Crack the Whip: Some of your ministers and appointees are not in to serve. Some are in to make money and retire with you because they stand no chance of being in a future NDC administration. Some have presidential ambitions and want to build war chests of resources to pursue their goals. With minds contaminated with selfish ambitions, some will soon start looting and misbehaving.
“Do not hesitate to crack the whip at the hint of a scandal. That’s how you will save your administration. Don’t be like the Chief Clearing Agent of yore, who used state security agencies to clear his appointees of visa racketeering only for those cleared to openly confess their involvement”.
Manasseh Azure Awuni
The journalist also highlighted the YEA scandal, where a 2006 contract with Zoomlion allocated GHS 850 per sweeper but paid only GHS 250, with GHS 600 retained as management fees.
He urged the President to avoid reviving this exploitative deal and instead empower district assemblies to manage and pay sweepers directly.
Accordingly, he offered to provide evidence to aid the recovery and prosecution of those involved.
Additionally, he called for the termination of the SML contract in the downstream petroleum sector.
Awuni reminded the President of his campaign promise to cancel it, prosecute offenders, and recover stolen funds. “I will help your government and the ORAL team with every piece of evidence you need to recover the $140 million already paid to SML in this shady contract”.
Awuni emphasized the need for non-partisan elections of MMDCEs to strengthen decentralization.
Drawing from his experience in the U.S., he noted that despite political differences, functional institutions drive city development.
He urged the government to stop awarding and paying for contracts on behalf of assemblies, as this undermines decentralization efforts.
He also praised the President’s record of tolerance and urged him to ensure citizens have the freedom to express dissent without fear.
Awuni advised against party faithful silencing opposing voices and encouraged consolidating the support of the media and civil society gained during Akufo-Addo’s tenure. “Work with the CSOs and make good use of their expertise”.
Awuni observed that without seeking re-election, President Mahama is now better positioned to make tough decisions without fear of upsetting party members.
He urged him to act decisively and set good examples, making the most of this unique opportunity.
He also highlighted the plight of kayayei and other vulnerable youth in urban areas, emphasizing the need for attention to northern Ghana, where poverty persists despite its potential.
Awuni encouraged Mahama to focus on creating opportunities and addressing the region’s developmental challenges. “We can no longer blame others for neglecting to bridge the gap between the north and the south of the country”.
Mahama on Cautioned on “Landmines”; ORAL Risks, Ties with Jospong
Moreover, Manasseh Azure Awuni highlighted potential risks in Mahama’s presidency, cautioning that going after stolen wealth through ORAL could lead to scandals if not handled transparently.
He warned that corrupt individuals could strike deals with officials, undermining the effort. ORAL should apply to members of Mahama’s administration to maintain credibility.
He also condemned Mahama’s ties with Jospong Group, owners of Zoomlion Ghana, criticizing the president’s public support for the company despite its involvement in corrupt practices.
Awuni compared Jospong’s dealings to other shady businesses, calling for action to stop such enterprises that exploit political connections for personal gain.
“Your overly ambitious ministers of state and appointees will be your potential downfall. You have the power to appoint and dismiss. Don’t allow anybody to mess you up. It’s your presidency, not theirs.
“Some powerful chiefs and pastors will soon call you to stop making decisions that will help Ghana. Some will intervene for known thieves. Any chief who tells you not to prosecute a thief is himself a thief. You listen to them at your risk. Don’t allow them to twist your hands and have your name soiled”.
Manasseh Azure Awuni
Awuni reminded President Mahama that Ghanaians voted for him, and his actions, not those of others, will define his administration.
He stressed the importance of addressing internal and external security threats, particularly from extremists in the Sahel, highlighting the need for continued vigilance, especially in regions like Bawku.
He also raised concerns about illegal mining (galamsey), warning that the environmental destruction is threatening the country’s future.
According to Awuni, the recent violence in Obuasi is a stark reminder of the growing security risks posed by galamsey activities. “We can defeat galamsey if there is political will”.
Awuni advised President Mahama to reconsider some of his promises, emphasizing that real progress cannot be achieved through populist measures like paying university fees.
Instead, he urged the focus to shift to practical solutions for issues such as the education system and the economy, which remains in crisis.
He expressed his genuine desire for Mahama’s success, noting that if the president succeeds, so will the nation.
He lamented the brain drain, with skilled professionals like doctors and nurses leaving the country for better opportunities.
However, he acknowledged that Mahama cannot resolve everything in a single term. “But if you’re honest in your commitment to resetting Ghana, your effort shall be remembered and appreciated”.
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