President Mahama Bans DSTV at Jubilee House: Gov’t Cuts Pay-TV to Curb Wasteful Spending
President Mahama orders a ban on DSTV and satellite TV at the Jubilee House, signaling a nationwide move to cut non-essential spending and enforce modest leadership in government agencies.
Accra, Ghana — President John Dramani Mahama has imposed an immediate ban on DSTV and other satellite television subscriptions at the Jubilee House, with plans to extend the directive to all government ministries and agencies.
The decision, confirmed by Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Ofosu Kwakye, forms part of a broader initiative to reduce non-essential government expenditures and reinforce modest leadership at the highest levels.
DSTV Access Prohibited at the Presidency
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express with Evans Mensah, Mr. Ofosu Kwakye stated that no office at the presidency currently has access to paid television services.
“You might think it’s a trivial matter, but when you calculate the cumulative cost across ministries and agencies, the amount is significant,” he said.
He added that even his own office television is now restricted to free-to-air local channels.
Policy to Be Extended Nationwide
According to Mr. Kwakye, the administration is working to replicate the ban throughout the entire government structure to ensure responsible use of public funds.
“It is something that will be extended to all government agencies to ensure that we don’t waste the taxpayers’ money,” he added.
The policy is aimed at limiting unnecessary luxury in the public sector while improving fiscal discipline.
Promoting Responsible and Modest Governance
The move reflects President Mahama’s commitment to modest governance, particularly during a time of economic recovery and IMF-backed structural adjustments.
“Governance necessarily involves taking tough decisions,” Mr. Kwakye noted. “But the citizenry must see corresponding levels of modesty on the part of government officials—and that’s what President Mahama is committed to doing.”
Additional Cost-Cutting Reforms Expected
Government sources indicate that this initiative is only the beginning of a series of measures focused on reducing wasteful spending across all levels of public service. More directives are expected to be announced as the administration intensifies efforts to restore public trust and fiscal responsibility.
