Former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo has called on President-elect John Dramani Mahama to focus on delivering good governance and ensuring accountability as he assumes office.

Speaking to the media following the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) landslide victory in the 2024 elections, Mr Domelevo reminded the incoming administration that its electoral mandate carries significant responsibility.

“The majority of Members of Parliament (MPs) that the people gave to former President Mahama at the December 7 polls is to allow him to do good things for the country,” Mr Domelevo stated.

He urged the President-elect to use his parliamentary majority for the benefit of the nation, rather than for passing policies that may not serve the public interest.

“It will be expected that he leaves a legacy that we can say we have lived through four years of unprecedented, good governance,” he said. “He is not going to say, because I have the majority in parliament, we will pass through parliament and get approved policies which are not good for the people.”

Mr Domelevo also emphasised the need for constitutional reforms to strengthen governance and accountability.

“Any changes or amendments to the constitutions and the laws of Ghana, that will help us to ensure better governance, I think I am all for it,” he added.

The former Auditor-General further recommended a complete separation of the roles of Attorney General and Minister of Justice to enhance transparency and accountability within the government.

“There is no way that a cabinet minister like the Attorney General could be held accountable by his colleague minister. In fact, there is no way that you can sit in cabinet, be part of a policy decision or any decision, and when that decision is implemented with even advice from you, you come back and hold your colleague accountable,” he noted.

Mr Domelevo further urged Mr Mahama to act swiftly on his promise to recover looted state funds, stressing the importance of immediate action.

“He and his team should know that there is no honeymoon for them. He and his team should hit the ground running. Fortunately, he is not a novice at this; he has been there before and knows what to do.

“From day one after swearing-in, he and his team should start to work on what needs to be done immediately, especially the looted funds he promised us he is going to recover. I think he must take immediate action to ensure that these monies are not taken out of the country,” Mr Domelevo emphasised.

He also highlighted the critical expectations placed on the incoming administration to uphold trust and deliver on its promises as it prepares to lead the nation from January 2025.