Mahama won’t sweep corruption under the carpet – Lydia Akanvariba

The Minister of State for Public Sector Reforms and Member of Parliament for Tempane, Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, has affirmed the government’s tough stance on corruption. She stated that President John Dramani Mahama will not tolerate or conceal corrupt practices.

Speaking in an interview on Good Afternoon Ghana on Metro TV on Thursday, April 16, 2026, Madam Akanvariba emphasised that accountability remains central to the current administration’s governance approach.

“Mahama will not sweep corruption under the carpet,” she said.

She further reinforced the President’s position, warning that public officials who engage in corrupt acts should not expect protection.

“As for President Mahama, if you are corrupt, then you’re on your own,” she added.

Beyond the issue of corruption, Madam Akanvariba described her appointment as a humbling opportunity to serve, rejecting any notion that public office should be driven by pride or personal excitement.

“It’s a humbling position and a privilege to serve the people because the opportunity wasn’t handed to me on a silver platter,” she noted.

She explained that earning the trust of the electorate and engaging stakeholders requires dedication, adding that leadership must be anchored on responsibility rather than status.

The Minister also encouraged young women to pursue leadership roles with confidence, stressing that success should be based on competence and self-development rather than gender.

She revealed that her approach to leadership includes maintaining close ties with her constituents, even adopting their style of dressing to remain relatable.

“Sometimes the people of my community doubt my educational background because I blend in easily with them through my dressing. I wear their outfits to connect with them,” she said.

Madam Akanvariba also highlighted ongoing reforms within the public sector, including efforts to improve service delivery.

“We are advocating for a one-stop shop for public sector services,” she stated.

Reflecting on her professional journey, she credited her experience as a nurse and former NADMO Director as key to her preparedness for public office.

“Working for 14 years as a nurse and serving as a NADMO Director equipped me with the knowledge needed for public service,” she added.

Her remarks come as government intensifies efforts to strengthen accountability, improve public sector efficiency and restore public confidence in state institutions.