President John Mahama has called on Ghana’s newly appointed Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, to uphold the highest standards of integrity—even if the numbers reveal uncomfortable truths.
At a swearing-in ceremony for Dr. Iddrisu and a new deputy governor of the Bank of Ghana, Mahama promised full independence for the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), stressing that national development depends on objective, credible data.
“This isn’t just a change in leadership,” the President said. “It’s a reaffirmation of our commitment to evidence-based governance and institutional excellence.”
President Mahama emphasized that statistics play a vital role in shaping government policy on key issues such as poverty reduction, unemployment, and social protection. “Sound decisions must be rooted in sound data,” he said. “That’s why the Office of the Government Statistician is so crucial.”
Dr. Iddrisu, who comes to the role with a respected background in statistical research and data governance, is expected to spearhead the country’s efforts to modernize its data systems and improve transparency. Mahama made clear that expectations are high: “Lead with courage. Speak truth to power—even when it’s uncomfortable.”
A Call for Data Without Political Filters
Mahama’s message was unmistakable: the GSS must remain above politics. “Statistical integrity is not a luxury, it’s a necessity,” he declared. “Citizens must trust that published numbers are objective. Investors must believe our macroeconomic data is credible.”
The President stressed that in an increasingly data-driven world, Ghana cannot afford to lag behind. From tracking inflation and GDP to monitoring climate change and achieving Sustainable Development Goals, Mahama sees the GSS as a critical partner.
“We’re investing in digital transformation, upgrading data infrastructure, and making real-time monitoring a reality,” he said. “The Ghana Statistical Service must be at the center of this transformation.”
Strategic Role in National Programs
Mr. Mahama pointed to several flagship initiatives—including the 24-hour economy plan, the Ghana CARES recovery program, a national apprenticeship scheme, and reforms in education and health—that will rely on timely, disaggregated data to succeed.
“These programs require granular, real-time data to ensure that no one is left behind,” Mahama said.
In closing, the President delivered a firm charge: “Ghana’s future must be built on facts, not fiction. In a world of growing complexity, data must be our compass.”
He pledged full support to Dr. Iddrisu but made it clear that accountability will be non-negotiable: “You will have my support—but you will also be expected to hold us accountable. We must govern not by assumption, but by evidence.”
Source:TheDotNews