Mahama Government Denies Increasing Salaries of Presidential Appointees
Administration Says Current Conditions Were Inherited From Previous Government
By Boakye Stephen, Kumasi, Ghana | Reporting for Ghanaian News, Canada | June 16, 2026
The Mahama administration has dismissed claims that it has increased salaries and benefits for presidential appointees.
Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu stated that the President has not established any committee to review Article 71 emoluments since assuming office.
According to him, the current salaries and working conditions remain those approved under the previous administration.
“President Mahama has not added one cedi to the salaries of appointees he inherited,” Mr Kwakye Ofosu emphasized.
The government also pointed to a reduction in the number of political appointees at the Presidency as evidence of efforts to reduce public expenditure.
Officials disclosed that the current Presidency consists of 225 political appointees compared to 365 under the previous administration.
Constitutional Process
Article 71 salaries can only be altered through a constitutionally mandated committee whose recommendations must receive parliamentary approval.
Government insists no such committee has been constituted.
Analysis
The controversy reflects ongoing public scrutiny over government expenditure. While the administration’s explanation provides constitutional context, transparency regarding public-sector compensation remains essential.
Commentary | Boakye Stephen
Citizens have every right to question government spending. Likewise, governments have a duty to provide accurate information. Greater public access to compensation structures could reduce speculation and improve accountability.
