Handover notes ready for next govt

The Office of the Administrator-General (OAG) has announced the completion of handover notes documenting the eight-year tenure of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in preparation for their presentation to President-elect John Dramani Mahama.

Administrator-General Joyce Wereko Ampim-Opoku confirmed to the Daily Graphic that the notes, signed by heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) as well as Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), are ready to facilitate a seamless transfer of power.

“All notes have been finalized and signed by the relevant authorities,” Mrs. Ampim-Opoku stated, assuring Ghanaians of a smooth transition from the declaration of Mr. Mahama as President-elect by the Electoral Commissioner, Jean Mensa, to his swearing-in on January 7, 2025.

She emphasized that the OAG, in collaboration with the Office of the President, has ensured a well-coordinated process, leveraging Ghana’s established system of government assets administration and management.

Enhanced Handover Guidelines

Mrs. Ampim-Opoku highlighted significant improvements in the drafting of handover notes, citing updated guidelines and extensive training for institutional heads as key factors. These enhancements have resulted in standardized and comprehensive documentation across all government sectors.

“The process began early in the year, with the OAG working closely with the Office of the President under the Presidential Transition Act 2012 (Act 845) to ensure compliance with the law,” she explained.

Act 845 mandates the preparation of detailed handover notes, which are to be presented to the President-elect, Parliament, Judiciary, Council of State, and the Public Records Archives Administration Department (PRAAD).

Verification and Accountability

Mrs. Ampim-Opoku assured the public that mechanisms are in place to verify the accuracy of the notes. Heads of MDAs and MMDAs are required to append their signatures to the documents, affirming the authenticity of their content.

“The process is thorough and leaves no room for disputes. The signatures of institutional heads are a binding commitment to the accuracy of the notes,” she stated.

Government Assets Inventory

Regarding government assets, the Administrator-General noted that her office maintains an updated inventory of vehicles and other official assets. A stock-taking exercise, as stipulated by Act 845, is conducted 30 days before the incoming President assumes office to ensure accountability.

“We’ve been working with MDAs and the Office of the President to confirm the allocation of assets and ensure that all records are up to date,” she said.

The exercise includes verifying assets in the official and private residences of key government officials and ensuring all details are signed off by chief directors.

Commitment to a Seamless Transition

Mrs. Ampim-Opoku expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts between the OAG, the Office of the President, and all MDAs and MMDAs in delivering a smooth transition.

“The groundwork laid over the years has strengthened our transition framework, ensuring a seamless handover from President Akufo-Addo’s administration to President Mahama,” she said.

Historical Context

The Presidential Transition Act, passed in 2012, was introduced to address challenges in political transitions. It marked a significant step forward, establishing the Office of the Administrator-General to oversee and manage the process.

The Administrator-General’s assurance of readiness reflects the progress made in institutionalizing Ghana’s democratic transition process, ensuring stability and continuity in governance.