A Governance Expert, Professor Baffuor Agyemang Duah, has underscored the principle that the ultimate responsibility for policy decisions rests with the president, even as Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia faces scrutiny for his role in the Akufo-Addo administration’s policies.
Speaking on the Key Points program on TV3, Professor Agyemang Duah emphasized that while the Vice President can make proposals, the president ultimately makes the final decisions regarding policy implementation.
He highlighted the challenge faced by Ghanaians in separating Dr. Bawumia from the failures of certain government policies, noting that the Vice President’s vocal advocacy for these policies has led to his association with them.
“As vice president, I was asked by the president to assist in solving the problems that were inhibiting the economy. My approach was to help formalize the economy through digitalization as stated in our 2016 manifesto,” Dr. Bawumia stated during an address at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
However, Professor Agyemang Duah pointed out that while Dr. Bawumia may have played a prominent role in articulating economic policies, the decision-making authority ultimately lies with the president.
“The reality is that generally, vice presidents do not make the last call, they provide advice, and the buck simply stops on the desk of the president, which has been the reality of all vice presidents in republican states,” Professor Agyemang Duah stated.
He acknowledged Dr. Bawumia’s articulate advocacy for government policies but stressed that this does not absolve the president of accountability for the outcomes of those policies.
The comments from Professor Agyemang Duah come amidst ongoing discussions regarding the extent of Dr. Bawumia’s responsibility for the performance of the Akufo-Addo administration, particularly in economic matters.
As Ghana approaches the 2024 elections, such discussions surrounding accountability and leadership roles are expected to remain at the forefront of political discourse, shaping voter perceptions and decisions.