The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has issued a blunt reality check to party members who are currently agitating for political appointments. Speaking on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, "General Mosquito" urged supporters to manage their expectations as the Mahama administration continues to navigate its lean government policy.
Addressing a group of party faithful, Nketia used a mathematical analogy to highlight the difficulty of rewarding every loyalist in the current administration.
The "120 vs. 60" Argument
Asiedu Nketia’s comments touch on a central theme of the #ResettingGhana agenda—the significant reduction in the size of the government.
The Logic of Scarcity: Nketia questioned the rationale of those complaining about being overlooked, stating, "If you didn't get an appointment when the government had 120 ministers [under the previous administration], what is your chance of getting a position when we now have 60 ministers?"
Lean Government Commitment: He reminded members that President Mahama’s promise to run a government with no more than 60 ministers was a core campaign pledge to save the public purse. He emphasized that this "lean" approach naturally means fewer vacancies for political appointees.
Service Over Status: The Chairman urged members to see their contribution to the party’s victory as a service to the nation rather than a "ticket to a job," noting that there are other avenues to serve beyond ministerial roles.
Managing Internal Friction (April 2026)
This call for calm comes as the NDC leadership faces increasing pressure from grassroots organizers and regional executives who feel they have not been sufficiently compensated for their roles in the 2024 election victory.
Arrears & Resets: While the government has been clearing arrears in sectors like Free SHS feeding and GETFund, the "political debt" to party workers remains a sensitive topic.
Board Appointments: Nketia hinted that while ministerial slots are limited, the second and third waves of appointments to Boards and Agencies are still ongoing, asking for "maximum patience."
The "Third Force" Threat: Analysts suggest Nketia’s firm stance is also an attempt to keep members from being lured away by Hopeson Adorye’s newly formed United Party (UP), which has been actively recruiting disgruntled political figures.
Comparison of Government Size
| Administration | Year | Max Number of Ministers |
| Previous Administration | 2017–2021 | ~120–125 |
| Mahama Administration | 2025–2026 | 60 (Target/Actual) |
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